Hotel Nova Riviera

Welcome Party

Wedding Day

Church of Saint Jovan the Theologian at Kaneo

Ceremony

Despina Event & Lounge

Reception

After Party

Brunch

Monument of Saint Naum of Ohrid the Wonderworker

Trip to St Naum

Our Wedding

In the most ordinary place, something extraordinary began.Who would have thought in the world of retail and at the pharmacy at Walmart, Mark and Maggie’s paths crossed — two lives, two hearts, from two very different worlds.Maggie was born and raised in beautiful Macedonia, a land of lakes, mountains, and deep traditions. Her heart was full of warmth, kindness, and a love for life. Mark was pure Michigan — born in the USA, loyal to his Wolverines and Detroit sports teams, and with a soft spot for country music, laughter, and a good bourbon at sunset.From the moment they met, something unspoken sparked between them — a comfort that felt like home, even though their worlds were oceans apart.Their first date wasn’t fancy, but it was unforgettable: a University of Michigan football game. Maggie, who didn’t grow up watching football, found herself swept into the excitement — cheering, laughing, and falling a little more in love with the man sitting beside her. From that day on, Saturdays became sacred — a tradition of tailgates, touchdowns, and togetherness.Soon after came their first adventure: Cancun, Mexico, for a Luke Bryan concert. Under the sun and country music stars, Mark and Maggie danced barefoot in the sand, singing along, their hearts wide open to life and each other. That trip became their signature — traveling to Mexico for Crash My Playa every year, where music and love blended perfectly in the rhythm of the waves.They built a life filled with shared passions — hiking mountain trails, golfing together, savoring bourbon on quiet nights, and laughing over Macedonian dishes Maggie loved to cook. She brought her culture and traditions into their home, and Mark embraced them wholeheartedly. Together, they created a blend of two worlds that felt perfectly theirs. They share a home — raising kids, traveling, and dreaming about the future. They talk about retiring between Macedonia and the USA, exploring Europe, and spending their days hiking through America’s national parks.When they marry, it will be beside the crystal waters of Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia — a traditional Macedonian wedding surrounded by family, love, music, and color.Because their story isn’t just about love — it’s about finding your forever person in the most unexpected place, and building a life that’s as beautiful as the journey itself.

Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

Located in Ohrid, a 6-minute walk from Saraiste Beach, Hotel Nova Riviera features views of the mountain. With a shared lounge, the 4-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The hotel has a terrace and city views, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or a drink at the bar. At the hotel, rooms include a desk. The rooms in Hotel Nova Riviera are equipped with a flat-screen TV and free toiletries. The breakfast offers buffet, continental or Full English/Irish options. Speaking English, Croatian and Serbian at the reception, staff will be happy to provide guests with practical advice on the area. Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Early Christian Basilica, Port Ohrid and Church of St. John at Kaneo. Ohrid Airport is 5.6 miles from the property.

Travel

1. Church of St John at Kaneo A beautiful medieval church perched on a cliff above the lake — one of the most iconic photo spots in Ohrid. <a href="https://traveladdicts.net/lake-ohrid-macedonia/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Petite Wanderer+3Travel Addicts+3Adventurous Miriam+3</a> Website / Info: Wikipedia has a good overview: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Church_of_St._John_at_Kaneo?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Monastery of St John at Kaneo</a> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Church_of_St._John_at_Kaneo?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia</a> Tip: Visit near sunset for the best views.

Church of St John at Kaneo

This ancient fortress sits above Ohrid and offers panoramic views of the lake and town. <a href="https://adventurousmiriam.com/things-to-do-in-ohrid-macedonia/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Adventurous Miriam+1</a>Website / Info: Wikipedia summary: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuel%27s_Fortress%2C_Ohrid?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Samuel’s Fortress, OhridWikipedia</a>Tip: The climb up is worth it for the view—go early or later in the day to avoid midday heat.

Samuel’s Fortress

Located on the southern shore of the lake, this monastery is set in beautiful nature and offers a relaxing excursion. <a href="https://sandaltanman.com/lake-ohrid-north-macedonia-guide/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sandal Tan Man+2Travel Addicts+2</a>Website / Info: Wikipedia page: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monastery_of_Saint_Naum?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Monastery of Saint NaumWikipedia</a>Tip: Consider a boat trip from Ohrid town to reach it—scenic and fun.

Monastery of Saint Naum

One of the simplest pleasures: walking the lakeside path, taking in views, stopping for café or swim. <a href="https://www.intothebloom.com/ohrid-travel-guide/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Into the Bloom+2Sandal Tan Man+2</a>Tip: During summer, you’ll find spots to swim, or in the evening enjoy lakeside dining.

Walk the Lakeside & Boardwalk in Ohrid Town

The lake is clean and calm, making it ideal for water activities. <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g303864-d318826-Reviews-Lake_Ohrid-Ohrid_Southwestern_Region.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tripadvisor+2Two Humans and a Dog+2</a>Tip: Rent a paddle board or kayak in Ohrid town and explore the lake shore at your own pace.

Water Activities: Swimming, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding

The old town around Ohrid is full of churches (some dating back centuries), an ancient amphitheatre, and charming streets. <a href="https://adventurousmiriam.com/things-to-do-in-ohrid-macedonia/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Adventurous Miriam+2Cassie the Hag+2</a>Tip: Don’t just stick to the lakeside — wander up into the historic quarter and soak in the history.

Mark & Magdalena