A Wedding at the Legacy at Eighteenmile Creek

A Whimsical Celebration of Grace & Adam at The Legacy on Eighteenmile Creek

A Venue Steeped in Timeless Beauty

There are wedding venues, and then there is The Legacy on Eighteenmile Creek—Buffalo’s newest affordable wedding venue, where elegance and warmth meet nature’s charm.

Tucked into the rolling landscape of Hamburg, New York, this custom-built structure offers an idyllic escape for couples seeking a timeless wedding venue filled with photo-worthy spots and serene views. Its climate-controlled building, sweeping outdoor grounds, and unique architectural details make it the perfect stage for a love story like Grace and Adam’s—a story brimming with devotion, family, and a touch of Pride and Prejudice–worthy romance.

An Austen-Worthy Romance

If Jane Austen herself had penned a modern love story, it might have looked a little like Grace and Adam’s. Their courtship began seven years ago, an instant connection between two kindred souls. From ice cream dates (Adam with an orange creamsicle, Grace with vanilla and rainbow sprinkles) to Saturdays spent walking their dogs, Obi and Ray, the two built a foundation of laughter, teamwork, and enduring affection.

At The Legacy at 18 Mile Creek, the wedding vision came to life. Golden sunlight streamed through the venue’s wide windows as family and friends gathered, just as in Austen’s pages—a community coming together to celebrate not just a marriage, but a union of hearts and histories.

Family: The Heart of the Day

While Grace and Adam’s love story took center stage, their wedding day was also a living tribute to the families who shaped them. Both youngest children in their families—a “fraternity” of sorts, as one speech lovingly put it—Grace and Adam carry the imprint of those who came before them.

Adam’s four older siblings—Lauren, John, Michael, and Andrew—have watched him grow from a “lanky blond kid” into a man of perseverance, humor, and character. Grace, with her older brother Travis and (much) older sister Shelby, has been described as a built-in best friend—someone who lends a hand, listens deeply, and sees the good in everyone.

And woven through the ceremony was an unspoken but deeply felt presence: Adam’s parents, who have departed this world but remain steadfastly in their son’s heart. Grace honored them beautifully during her vows, speaking of their generosity, strength, and love—qualities Adam inherited and now shares with her. “I vow to carry their memory forward with us,” she promised, a sentiment that echoed like a benediction in the hushed space.

The Ceremony at The Legacy

From the first moment guests arrived at The Legacy on Eighteenmile Creek, they were greeted by its thoughtful design. The venue’s expansive custom-built structure and grounds—with their natural wood accents, elegant lighting, and panoramic windows—offered a stunning backdrop for the couple’s heartfelt vows.

The officiant, a beloved family member, infused the ceremony with humor and warmth. Jokes about keeping the service under two hours, passing “sacramental wine every five minutes,” and avoiding “animal sacrifices” drew chuckles from the crowd. Yet he also led a touching moment of remembrance for those not physically present, inviting everyone to hold a smile, a tear, or a prayer for loved ones gone but not forgotten.

In one of the most moving moments, Grace and Adam pledged their lives to one another. Adam vowed “to laugh with, to cheer with, to cherish” Grace for as long as they both shall live. Grace, in turn, promised to “support you and love you through it all,” holding his hand no matter what life brings. It was the kind of scene Austen might have written: simple, sincere, and overflowing with love.

Reception: Joy, Laughter & Local Flavor

As the ceremony transitioned into celebration, The Legacy at 18 Mile Creek showed off its versatility. With its climate-controlled interior and open layout, the reception space accommodated guests comfortably while maintaining an intimate, festive atmosphere.

Grace and Adam’s shared passions—sports, family, and community—threaded through the evening. Speeches from siblings and friends captured their essence: Adam, the hardworking DIY-er who can coach lacrosse and sing Rex Orange County in the same afternoon; Grace, the selfless soul with a heart “that can only be described as beautiful.” Together, they are “true partners—equals and best friends.”

Their love of Buffalo’s teams (the Bandits, the Bills, and the Sabres) found playful nods throughout the décor and toasts. And of course, their beloved fur babies Ray and Obi—even though they “growled from under the couch” back home—were honored too.

A Portrait of Grace

To know Grace is to be drawn in by her warmth. Her sister Shelby’s speech painted a vivid portrait: from glitter-covered crafts in childhood to sharing clothes in their teenage years, Grace has always been “a built-in best friend.” Her superpower is seeing the good in others—a quality that drew Adam to her from the start and has made her a beloved friend, sister, and now wife.

Her friends echoed the same sentiment. “She quickly became the most reliable, selfless, and helpful friend I had,” one bridesmaid shared. Another called Grace her “ride or die,” someone whose texts make her feel as if Grace is “just down the road.” These heartfelt words weren’t just compliments—they were evidence of the life Grace has cultivated: generous, joyful, deeply connected.

A Legacy of Love

It feels fitting that Grace and Adam began their married life at a place called The Legacy. The name speaks not just to the venue’s stunning architecture and grounds, but to the stories carried into it—the legacies of family, friendship, and love.

In her vows, Grace thanked Adam for “working hard for us” and “loving me.” She looked forward to building their life together with their dogs, Obie and Ray, and their future children. “Every day you will know how much you are loved,” she said, her voice breaking slightly. Adam responded in kind, speaking of the seven years they’ve already shared and the lifetime to come.

The night ended as it began—with gratitude. Grace took the microphone to thank every guest, saying she was “filled with appreciation” for each person present and those who couldn’t be there. Adam followed with a heartfelt “Ditto,” drawing laughter from the crowd. Then it was time to eat, dance, and celebrate.

Why The Legacy on Eighteenmile Creek Was the Perfect Choice

Choosing a wedding venue is no small task, but Grace and Adam couldn’t have picked a more fitting setting. The Legacy on Eighteenmile Creek combines natural beauty with thoughtful amenities. Its photo-worthy outdoor spots—perfect for first-look portraits and sunset moments—paired with the elegant interior created a seamless flow from ceremony to reception.

Guests enjoyed the convenience of a climate-controlled building (a lifesaver on unpredictable Western New York days) without sacrificing the venue’s warm, rustic aesthetic. And the staff’s attention to detail allowed the couple to focus on what mattered most: savoring their day and celebrating with loved ones.

A Final Toast

Marriage is a journey built on love, patience, and the choice to show up for each other every single day. Grace and Adam embody that choice. Whether they’re flying off to London to cheer on the Bills, running errands together on a Saturday morning, or simply laughing over ice cream, they live their vows in the quiet, ordinary moments.

Here’s to the newest Mr. and Mrs. Rakieki. May their life together be filled with adventures, nighttime dog walks, and a love that grows stronger with every passing year. And may the memories of this day at The Legacy on Eighteenmile Creek—Buffalo’s premier timeless wedding venue—always remind them of the beauty of their beginning.

Vendor Appreciation

Because a perfect wedding day simply cannot happen without an amazing vendor team supporting the bride and groom's wedding day vision.

Venue: The Legacy at Eighteenmile Creek

Videographer: Candidly Kierra Productions

Photographer: Ewe Photography

DJ: Buffaluv Soundz

Dress: New Ivory Bridal

Suits: Marty's Formal Wear

Florist: Blossoms N Treasures

Makeup Artist: Shelby, the much older sister of the bride

Hair Stylist: Divina Salon

Catering: Frontier Catering

Cake & Desserts: Sweet Pea Bakery

Rings: Graeber Jewelers

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If you enjoyed the deluxe highlight reel above, make sure to check out more of my work in my blog or wedding portfolio. Check out feature films too! If you are interested in having me film your wedding, head over to my wedding package pricing page or feel free to contact me!