A Wedding at Hartman's Distilling Co
- Jun 22, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 16, 2025
Two Hearts Running Wild: Victoria & Michael’s City Hall “I Do” and Hartman’s Distilling Celebration
From Kindergarten to City Hall — The Ultimate Love Story
When people talk about high school sweethearts making it to the altar, Victoria and Michael’s story is what they dream of. But this love story doesn’t just start in high school — it goes all the way back to kindergarten. From childhood pageants and awkward middle school phases to becoming “the two girls on the hockey team” (yes, that hair), their journey was written in the stars — or at least in school yearbooks and teen diaries.
After 12 years of growing up and growing closer, Victoria and Michael chose to make it official with a heartfelt, non-traditional wedding ceremony in the Chamber of Commerce at Buffalo City Hall, followed by a celebration that was anything but ordinary.
The Vows: Silly, Sweet, and Straight from the Heart
Under the watchful eyes of their closest family and friends, Michael and Victoria exchanged vows filled with personal memories, inside jokes, and tear-jerking promises.
Michael's vows? A mix of sentiment and signature silliness. From recalling their time as Mary and Joseph in a school play, to solemnly swearing to be her silly pick-me-up when needed, he perfectly captured the essence of a relationship that thrives on love, laughter, and maybe a little bit of Love Shack by The B-52s.
Victoria, meanwhile, spoke of the deep connection they’ve built — forged through the trials of life, the joys of travel, and the bittersweet awareness that every moment together is a gift. She shared a story from a Yosemite trip where a mythological couple argued so much they were turned into rocks at the park’s entrance. Her takeaway? “What a fantastic punishment it would be to face you for all eternity.”
Cue the collective sobbing.
Reception Round Two: A Party at Hartman’s Distilling Co.
Fast forward a month later — same couple, new venue, next-level vibes.
Victoria and Michael brought the real party to life at Hartman’s Distilling Co., Buffalo’s favorite urban distillery. Set in the heart of the city’s Old First Ward, this venue was the perfect spot to match their modern, non-traditional wedding energy.
Why Hartman’s Distilling Company Was the Perfect Fit
Not only is Hartman’s known for its craft spirits (we’re looking at you, award-winning bourbon and single malt whiskey), but its warm, industrial-chic vibe made for an unforgettable night of dancing, toasting, and third-wheeling (sorry, not sorry — you know who you are).
Victoria and Michael wanted a space that celebrated Buffalo’s roots, reflected their laid-back energy, and gave them room to throw a truly epic celebration. With Hartman’s full-service bar, custom cocktail menu, and indoor-outdoor flow, guests mingled, laughed, and celebrated in true Krauss fashion — with good drinks, great music, and even better company.
Bonus: if you’re planning a Buffalo wedding, Hartman’s Distilling Co. isn’t just a reception venue — it’s a vibe. With its location near the waterfront and cozy-yet-modern atmosphere, it makes the perfect backdrop for weddings that mix tradition with a twist.
Inside Jokes and Toasts to Remember
One of the highlights of the night? The toasts. From friends and siblings to tearful grandparents, the speeches at Victoria and Michael’s celebration were the kind that walk the perfect line between laughter and full-on waterworks.
There was:
A shout-out to their nightly ritual of milk and cookies, “like an old couple”
Tales of Delta Sonic days, Justin Bieber-worthy hair, and golf weekends turned Dals nights turned 20 lbs heavier (it’s the wings, OK?)
A Subway-origin story between Vicki and her best friend — full of resting faces, beer Olympics, and the mega box from Pizza Hut (romance is alive, people)
A heartfelt thank-you to the crowd from the bride and groom, who really meant it when they said “This is our thank you. We’re not sending cards.” (Iconic.)
A Ceremony That Broke the Mold
Victoria and Michael were clear from the get-go: this wouldn’t be your typical wedding. And thank goodness for that.
Their Buffalo City Hall nuptials were intimate, meaningful, and exactly what they envisioned. And their Hartman’s Distilling reception? An open-hearted, open-bar kind of night. Think less white-glove and more raised glasses, loud laughter, and a live soundtrack to match.
Guests were told to “keep May 17th free” even before a venue was booked. There was no formal sit-down dinner or flower-stuffed ballroom. Instead, it was about community, love, and celebration — pure and simple.
12 Years In — And Just Getting Started
Through every toast, dance move, and heartfelt speech, one theme rang loud and clear: Victoria and Michael are truly meant for each other.
They’ve stood the test of time. They've grown up together, supported one another through loss and love, and still find ways to make each other laugh on the most mundane days.
And whether it’s hiking in Yosemite, eating mega boxes of pizza, or simply enjoying a nightcap of cookies and milk, these two make everyday life feel like an adventure.
Final Cheers: To Love, Laughter, and the Krausses
As the music faded and the lights dimmed at Hartman’s Distilling Co., one thing was clear — this wedding was more than a party. It was a celebration of a love that spans decades, friendships that never fade, and families who show up in every possible way.
From City Hall to cocktail hour, from homemade vows to custom cocktails, Victoria and Michael proved that weddings don’t need to follow the rules — they just need to be real.
So here’s to the newlyweds: May your love continue to grow, your jokes get dumber, and your cookie game stay strong.
And if anyone’s looking for the ultimate Buffalo wedding venue, don’t forget to check out Hartman’s Distilling Company — because love like this deserves a backdrop just as bold.
Vendor Shoutouts
Reception: Hartmans' Distilling Company
Other Filming Locations:
Videographer: Candidly Kierra Productions
Photographer: Kelly Patricia Photography
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