St. John Cantius Catholic Church

*Optional* Marriage Ceremony

The Morton Arboretum

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Dinner and Dancing

Fall

Our Wedding

Paul and Annie met in 2005, their sophomore year of high school, at Benet's Homecoming football game. After a quick look at Paul's choice of attire for the occasion, Annie asked "Do you like emo music?" An affirmative nod kicked off their friendship. After that night they realized they had all but one class together that year. They remained close friends throughout high school and into college, bonding over their shared interests in music, art, and fitness. In February of 2014, Paul and Annie finally decided to start dating. They were initially nervous to evolve such a deep, long-term friendship into something else, but it turned out to be the best risk they'd ever taken. Paul and Annie bought a house together in 2018, and adopted two cats, Charlie and Cleo the next year. In March of 2023, Paul finally proposed to Annie while on vacation in Jamaica, on the cliffs overlooking the ocean at sunset. They're so excited to enter the next part of their relationship as husband and wife. While it's not the typical story about high school sweethearts meeting, falling in love at first sight, and getting married when they turn 18, it is a story about two best friends sharing their entire lives with each other, falling further in love each year.

Slowburn

Our Story

Photos

Us three rapscallions met while attending DePaul, becoming friends sometime in our later years there and only getting closer ever since. 

Kevin has brought a lot of light into my life with his easy-going personality and dedication to our friendship. I can always be myself in front of him. On top of that, I know I can count on him for anything. 

He agreed to be my Man of Honor without hesitation, and I am grateful to have him stand beside me.

Kevin Lownds

Paul met Chris all the way back in the early 90s, and they've been as close as brothers ever since. 

As the groom's confidant and closest companion, Chris is honored to stand by his brother Paul's side on this joyous occasion. Born and raised in the same household, their bond transcends friendship, rooted in a shared history of mischief, laughter, and unconditional support.

From childhood adventures to navigating the complexities of adulthood, Chris has been Paul's steadfast ally through every milestone. With a heart as vast as his humor, Chris brings a sense of camaraderie and genuine warmth to every interaction.

As Paul's best man, Chris is not only entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that the groom's tie is straight and his nerves are calm but also with the task of celebrating their enduring brotherhood amidst the backdrop of love and commitment.

Chris Brom

Kristen Stewart

Steffi Johnson

Wedding Party

Q + A

We have set aside a block of rooms here for your convenience. It is located 1.2 miles from Morton Arboretum.

Hyatt Regency Lisle Near Naperville

This is where the bride and groom will be staying. Located in Downtown Naperville. 6.7 miles from Morton Arboretum.

Hotel Indigo Naperville Riverwalk, an IHG Hotel

Located 3.8 miles from Morton Arboretum.

Chicago Marriott Naperville

Located 2.1 miles&nbsp;from Morton Arboretum.

DoubleTree by Hilton Lisle Naperville

Travel

They venue is available to our guests, with free parking, starting at 7am when they open. Guests can arrive early to walk the trails or take photos on the grounds. I recommend the Grand Garden and Meadow Lake. There are also art installations that you can hunt for.

There is a nice walking path along the river, as well as many shops and restaurants in the area.

Riverwalk Park (Downtown Naperville)

Visit the animals, see the dolphin show, or ride the new ferris wheel. Visit the website for the exhibits, etc.

Brookfield Zoo

Take the train (Lisle to Union Station) to downtown Chicago for activities like: Field Museum, Planetarium, Aquarium, Art Institute, Maggie Dailey Park, Millenium Park. Not to mention indulging in the many delicious restaurants along the way.

Downtown Chicago

Visit one of our favorite restaurants in Glen Ellyn. They have great seasonal cocktails and their small plates are *chef's kiss*

fire + wine

Enjoy the 7 miles of trails or bring your bow for some archery. They also have an off-leash dog area for you to enjoy.

Blackwell Forest Preserve

Visit some of the bride and groom's favorite trails. This is just one of many in the Palos area, so make sure to look up a trail length and difficulty that suits you.

Annie & Paul

Annie & Paul

Registry

Your presence at our wedding means the world to us! After living together for 6 years, we have amassed all of the household essentials. If you wish to give a gift, we would greatly appreciate contributions towards our future together. Thank you for being a part of our special day.