Flyleaf

Pearls, Prosecco, & Patrick: A Bridal Shower Soirée!

GT Studio

Brick's First Toast Welcome Party

Wildman BT

Wedding Rehearsal

Avli River North

Rehearsal Brunch

Headquarters Beercade

Brick's High Score Heroes Hangout!

Brick's Wedding Day

Winter

Our Wedding

Our Adventure: From Scroll to Stroll Down the Aisle

Brandi loves to say we met the old-fashioned way: on the internet! From those first digital sparks, we've embarked on countless adventures. Think of this as our highlight reel, showcasing just a few of our favorite moments. Spoiler alert: we're pretty big fans of sports and exploring new places!

Our Foundation: A Love Story

In May 2021, life was all about lockdown. But I (Brandi) was already planning my Chicago move for work, so I set my Hinge location accordingly. That's how Nick and I connected. Instead of the usual quick meet-up, we ended up talking on the phone for weeks. It was kind of necessary, since Nick was traveling and I wasn't planning an apartment hunt trip to Chicago for a few weeks – talk about old-school! But honestly, it led to a real connection, and when we finally met in person, it just clicked. We did the long-distance thing for a bit, but my move to Chicago in September 2021 sealed the deal. And here's a little known fact: we actually went on a family vacation to Hawaii with Nick's family before we were officially dating. We like to say that it was "an interesting introduction" to the family! So, our story is definitely pandemic-born, phone-forged, and with a bit of a family adventure thrown in! Then came the proposal. Knowing how much I love books, Nick orchestrated a surprise engagement at a vibrant, Black-owned bookstore in Maryland – the perfect tribute to my passion for diverse stories. During our relationship, we've explored bookstores together all across the country, and it's become such a fun part of our relationship. So, after a day of carefully planned activities, Nick led me to this amazing bookstore. As I was browsing the shelves, he got down on one knee, presenting the most stunning pear-shaped ring. It was such an intimate moment, and Nick had even secretly hired a photographer to capture it all. My family was there, waiting nearby, ready to celebrate. The bookstore erupted in cheers when I said "yes," and we had champagne toasts and a family photo shoot right there. It was the perfect day and perfect proposal for us!

Our Story: From Hinge to "I Do"

The Cornerstone Moment: The Proposal

The Brick Squad

Introducing the Brick Squad! Named after our joint nickname, this group is made up of our absolute best friends and family. They're the strong foundation of our lives and are here to help us build our marriage brick by brick. Get ready to celebrate with this incredible crew!

Bridesmaids

Though separated by a mere 18 months, Brandi (the wiser, older sister) and Brianna (the darling, younger sister) are a perfectly balanced pair, often described as wonderfully similar and delightfully opposite! While Brianna is busy bird-watching outside, Brandi is inside enjoying fashion and a good book—though they always make time for wine and reading together. Brianna's favorite pastime has always been copying her sister, but since Brianna got married first, she's thrilled for Brandi to copy her best idea yet: a beautiful and successful marriage. Their bond is unbreakable; they talk constantly, and Brandi's love for Brianna's children truly makes them all one happy family. Brianna can't wait to stand by her big sister on this beautiful day!

Brianna

A dynamic duo, Amaris and Brandi, sparked a lifelong friendship on a surprisingly warm St. Patrick’s Day at UofM. Since that lucky day, they've traded parties on campus for concerts and brunches, ruling the scene with impeccable style. Their perfectly curated calendars are full of social events, travels and  a splash of nightlife. They are close as family, sharing a bond built on laughter, epic adventures, and enough fun memories to last a lifetime (and then some!).


Amaris

Karli and Brandi first met in high school when they became roommates for a college engineering summer program—and the rest is history. They went on to room together for their first two years of college, where Karli brought a little (okay, a lot of) chaos to Brandi’s already colorful life. From late-night study sessions to laughing until sunrise, their friendship has been full of energy, heart, and endless memories ever since.

Karli

Kyla and Brandi have been inseparable since very young kids—a bond forged over countless weekend sleepovers, sharing a camper while Bri Bri rode horses, and strengthened by their mothers, who were high school besties, making them "cousins." Having seen each other through every life stage (including Brandi being the first to teach Kyla about a chaser for a shot!), Kyla knew Brandi's life was about to take off the moment she returned from Chicago and spoke about Nick. The real confirmation, though, was seeing how effortlessly Nick handled the classic Kyla and Brandi frolic through downtown Detroit, proving he was absolutely the one.

Kyla

Brandi and Mercedes bonded in an engineering 101 class w/ a professor who famously started class saying “good things take time, bad things happen fast”. This they learned over time to be true about friendships, relationships and careers. Over the years, they’ve navigated new cities, always with plenty of shenanigans, costume parties and football games along the way. The best of their adventures brought Brandi to Chicago, where Mercedes offered Bran a soft landing staying with her family (who of course also quickly became obsessed with Brandi). It was there that Brandi would crash after her first dates with Nick, and it was clear from day one that this chapter was the final one. 

Merecedes

Groomsmen

A steadfast duo, Brock and Nick forged a brotherhood in the aisles of Central Market during their college years in Southlake, Texas. Since those early days, they’ve traded grocery shifts for career milestones, proving that true friendship knows no zip code. Through graduations, new jobs, and cross-country moves, they’ve remained as close as family, sharing a bond built on unwavering loyalty and a connection that has survived every season of life.

Brock

Leading the pack as the eldest of the Addison brothers, Wes sets the standard. Nick has always looked up to Wes’s sharp intellect and unstoppable drive, seeing him as a blueprint for success. As Nick’s number one supporter from day one, Wes brings the energy and sets the tone for the brotherhood, proving that big brothers really do know best.

Nick’s other older brother, Mike, earned the title "Mr. Clutch" on the baseball diamond as a kid, and the nickname still fits perfectly today. Whether it’s in sports or brotherly duty, Mike always brings his A-game. Whenever he steps up to the plate, he delivers, proving to be an MVP in every single aspect of Nick’s life. He also just completed an Ironman (ask him about it)!

Michael 

Nick’s future brother-in-law, Manny, felt like family from the start. From their very first meeting, they hit it off instantly, bonding over a mutual love of sports and a serious appreciation for baked goods. Nick is beyond honored to be legally gaining another brother (and a fellow dessert enthusiast) to share the journey with.

Emmanuel Amingwa

Nick and Brady first became friends at Illinois State University, kicking off a brotherhood that led Nick to serve as a groomsman in Brady’s wedding. Now, Brady returns the favor. It’s a friendship that has seamlessly expanded to the next chapter, especially with Brandi and Brady’s wife, Danielle, becoming fast friends too!

Brady

The Building Blocks

Ryan (aka Ryy Ryy or RyyBread as nicknamed by Brandi years ago) and Brandi met their very first week at the University of Michigan, where they instantly bonded over engineering struggles, football Saturdays, and a healthy dose of chaos. Having celebrated countless wins and survived many losses together, Ryan couldn't be happier to see her with Nick—a genuinely funny and easygoing person he truly enjoys being around. Since Brandi was a groomswoman in his wedding last year, getting to officiate their ceremony is the ultimate full-circle moment he wouldn't miss for anything!


Ryan Smith

TiTi’s number one favorite person and our resident expert on all things Batman, superhero, and sports. Known for his enthusiasm for learning and asking all the big questions, he is taking his role as Head of Ring Security very seriously. Keep an eye out for this little legend making sure the most important piece of bling arrives safely!

Alan Amingwa

Averi is ready to bring her signature style and love for the color pink to the ceremony! This newly 9 year old cousin of Nick is famous for her great doll collection, her stylish outfits, and her passion for K-Pop Demon Hunters. She is going to make sure our walk down the aisle is perfectly chic!

Averi Jones

Julian has been Nick's close friend since freshman year of high school. To this day, they still can't agree on who was the stronger weightlifter back then, but one thing that isn’t up for debate is the strength of their friendship. Julian has a perfect attendance record in Nick's life, never missing a birthday, half-birthday, holiday, or major milestone.

Julian Thomas

Mike and Nick’s friendship was forged in the weight rooms of Illinois State University. As college workout partners, they were inseparable at 6 AM every morning, largely thanks to Mike’s dedication (regardless of the previous night’s festivities). After maintaining their close bond while Mike lived in San Diego, Nick is happy to welcome him and his family back to Illinois!

Michael Mann

Special Shout Out: Brick's "Something Blue Crew"

These are the extra-special friends who are helping us carry our "something blue" down the aisle and into the new year. Keep an eye out for them throughout the night—they'll be rocking blue and sharing in all the joy!

Calise Givens, Cole Salamone, Diana Roelfsema, Elizabeth Morgan, Emily Piwowar, Garrett Risley, Jasmine Hyatt, Lyndon Johnson, Margaret Omori, Morgan Smith, Vanessa Joseph

Your Stay in Downtown Chicago

We're so thrilled you're making the trip to celebrate with us! To help you plan your stay, we've compiled some accommodation options in the downtown Chicago area. For your convenience, we've reserved special room blocks at several hotels. You can book your room at your preferred hotel using the links below. Please be sure to book by Friday, November 21, 2025 to secure our group rate!

Come join the fun! This hotel is where The Brick Squad (our amazing bridal party) will be staying!

Renaissance Chicago Downtown

Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago

JW Marriott Chicago

Hello, Chicago!

Welcome to the city where we are building our forever! We've rounded up all our personal, insider favorites so you can experience Chicago like a true local this NYE! Get ready for cool hangouts, our favorite cozy bars, and great food! Many of our favorite places are walkable from our guest hotels, and for others, we highly recommend Uber or Lyft, as they are reasonably priced and basically on call throughout the city. <a href="https://www.transitchicago.com/schedules/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The CTA Train</a> is also a great option for our more adventurous guests!

Our Fave HH Spot: Brandi &amp; Nick swear by their incredible bar menu (seriously, try the burger), and the staff is the best: they make amazing cocktails, and we always have the best time hanging out with them. Go see why we love it—and please tell them Brandi and Nick sent you! Neighborhood Alert: BlVD is located in West Loop, one of our favorite areas to hang out. It houses Brandi’s office and is only a 10-minute walk from our place. Known for its famous Restaurant Row—the dining and bar scene here is incredible. Distance From Renaissance: 1.5 miles (8 min Uber)

BLVD Steakhouse

For Comfort Food w/ a View: The riverfront view is gorgeous, but the real reason Brandi &amp; Nick go back is the food: it is straight-up delicious and the best comfort food for a chilly Chicago day. It’s the perfect, cozy spot for a memorable meal before our big night! Brandi snapped this pic so you know it's real! Distance From Renaissance: 0.3 miles (7 min walk)

River Roast

Our Fave Chi Town Pizza: Okay, we know the deep dish is famous, but we’re here to tell you: Nancy’s thin crust is our secret weapon! It’s perfectly crispy, absolutely delicious, and our (and Alan's) favorite pizza in the entire city. While you’re there, try the thin crust and see why we’re so obsessed! Pro Tip: They also deliver if you don't want to brave the elements! Distance from Renaissance: 1.7 miles (8 min Uber)

Nancy's Pizza Chicago West Loop

Our Fave Delivery Spot: Need a late-night bite or some delicious comfort food delivered straight to your hotel room? We highly recommend Kameya Ramen! Their broth is incredible, the portions are huge, and it's the perfect warm-up for a cold Chicago night. Trust us on this one: get delivery and thank us later! Pro Tip: Our go-to is the Pork Belly Ramen!

Kameya Ramen & Sushi

Photo Op Spot: You have to embrace being a tourist for a minute! The Bean (Cloud Gate) is totally essential, and we love hitting Millennium Park to get the required photo op. It’s truly an iconic sculpture, and your trip isn't complete without a reflective selfie under that famous Chicago skyline! Distance from the Renaissance: 0.5 miles (12 min walk)

Millennium Park

Our Seasonal Tradition: This is one of our favorite holiday traditions, and it’s totally worth braving the Chicago cold! The market is filled with sparkling lights, festive seasonal cheer, and delicious warm treats like hot cocoa and roasted almonds. Nick and I never miss going to find and customize our annual ornament—it’s the perfect, cozy seasonal fun! Here's one of our favorite hand-blown creations! Distance from Renaissance: 0.2 miles (5 min walk)

Christkindlmarket Chicago

Our Relaxation Spot:&nbsp;If you need a break from the holiday chaos and the cold Chicago weather, we are obsessed with AIRE Ancient Baths! It’s the ultimate relaxation experience: a stunning, candlelit subterranean retreat with thermal pools. We highly recommend treating yourself to this quiet escape before or after the big NYE celebration! Fun Fact: Nick surprised Brandi and her sister, Brianna, with a trip to Aire when she 1st arrived in Chicago! Distance From Renaissance: 1.9 miles (11 min Uber)

AIRE Ancient Baths Chicago

Fun &amp; Games: If you're looking for a fun way to mix and mingle before the wedding, we highly recommend Flight Club Chicago. It’s competitive social darts—a high-tech, fun twist on a classic game with great cocktails. It's one of our favorite spots for a guaranteed good time and some friendly competition! Distance From Renaissance: 0.1 miles (4 min walk)

Flight Club Chicago

For Late Night ~Vibes~: Expat is a must-visit because it completely transforms from a chill daytime coffee spot to a late-night lounge! We love the R&amp;B and hip hop playlist (they do a lot of throwbacks if you're into that), and there are always plenty of cozy seats for us millennials to actually sit and vibe! Distance From Renaissance: 1.9 miles (9 min Uber)

Expat

For Late Night Cocktails: Moneygun is one of our go-to spots for the absolute best, classic cocktails in Chicago! The atmosphere is a cool, dark lounge vibe with hip hop playlist that is always on point There’s no fussy menu—they just make perfect drinks every single time. Distance From Renaissance: 1.1 miles (5 min Uber)

MONEYGUN

Our Fave Dive Bar: Nick introduced Brandi to The Standard years ago, and it quickly became one of our favorite spots! We’ve made so many fun memories here, including a legendary St. Patty’s Day takeover with about 20 of our closest friends back in 2022. It’s a huge, lively spot with classic bar food and lots of screens for sports! Neighborhood Alert! If you happen to pop by The Standard, the whole Wicker Park area is super cool! Make sure to take a walk around and check it out! Distance from Renaissance: 3.1 miles (10 min Uber)

Standard Bar and Grill

A Little Bit of Everything: The Hoxton is a total vibe and one of our favorite spots because it has so many personalities! You can grab a chic cocktail at the lobby bar, get cozy at the subterranean Lazy Bird, or soak up the energy and views at the rooftop Cabra—which also serves an amazing brunch! It’s the perfect blend of dining and atmosphere. Distance From Renaissance: 1.3 miles (6 min Uber)

The Hoxton, Chicago

Brick's Chicago Picks

Dress Code

NYE Black Tie: What To Wear

The date is set, the bubbly is chilling, and now for the big question: what to wear?! Since we're ringing in the new year with a Black Tie celebration, we created some style guides to help you figure out your New Year's Eve best. Please help us welcome the new year in style—we're asking everyone to bring the wow factor and dress to the nines!

Click the pics below to check out the style guides!

NYE Black Tie Style Guide

General

<a href="https://www.theknot.com/us/brandi-patrick-and-nicholas-addison-dec-2025-5477dd50-e95d-4ba8-b919-4fad69c1071b/nye-black-tie-style-guide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Brick's NYE Wedding Style Guide</a>

<a href="https://www.theknot.com/us/brandi-patrick-and-nicholas-addison-dec-2025-5477dd50-e95d-4ba8-b919-4fad69c1071b/registry" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Brick's Wedding Registry</a>

Ceremony & Reception

Transportation & Accomodations

Pro Tip: The Brick Squad&nbsp;(our amazing bridal party) will be staying at The Renaissance!<a href="https://www.theknot.com/us/brandi-patrick-and-nicholas-addison-dec-2025-5477dd50-e95d-4ba8-b919-4fad69c1071b/travel" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hotel Accommodations</a>

JW Marriott Parking Options:- Valet Parking: $88 per night- Self-Parking: Corner of Adams and Wells, $68 per night Renaissance Parking Options:- Valet Parking: $88 per day

Pro Tip: If you plan to arrive to the hotel in your vehicle, check out <a href="https://spothero.com/?%243p=a_hasoffers&amp;%24affiliate_json=http%3A%2F%2Ftracking.spothero.com%2Faff_c%3Foffer_id%3D4%26aff_id%3D1269%26source%3DLinkbux%26aff_unique1%3D47846%26aff_unique2%3D3690980%26aff_unique3%3DwizKxmN8no4-xYoVC.mw7m_EeEkqW8Uilw%26format%3Djson&amp;_branch_match_id=1525396341838856172&amp;utm_source=Partnerships&amp;utm_campaign=Tune_Platform&amp;utm_medium=paid%20advertising&amp;_branch_referrer=H4sIAAAAAAAAA32Ry07DMBBFvybekebVtEGyEGrLBsQGFcTKcly7Nnk4tZM%2BWPTbmaQlNBQhZeG5nnHOvSPrurK3o5GtdC250S6tKjdXZTYyW7aYlEb4yd1a0zzAIXKCKKwwJZJaLQQ3FlkmecGxbF9BR5YrlhG1wr4XBH7i0yAdhyLxoNfzoPCpiARLkdWNYRw%2FwW%2FSZo8ak59ecMJ7J3iA74oGtB8eJ4SeccvihPMLGieIuwMQwEUEZU8E9f9MXbO2NWGNMbxkB5hYvsx7eUvzhoPmtYrlTJcrag6katJcWUCFK7ixkhIqhMoVrflZ6rzC%2BewWpC5OUEL0jYsjVNFa4oFNNATCgNNuoH%2BffFhddsH1udWGskyVa7cPkOkCdJghDGL7FU8rn7IJ4uRv1ralKdWm4X47NJlG8UDtfMSJl0y9gR6CvlOfj%2FvieVrq6Gb%2Frl9nbrGbFGTBF9nmbbpU%2BQ5GhDYFraG7dYMkOMZX20cXO8AeOhoONgz4JKnRO8sNnkmjC%2F4FlpUwQc0CAAA%3D&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23332714037&amp;gbraid=0AAAABCKXV7uGVThZ6H8egzhH1x9IAIiL1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAl-_JBhBjEiwAn3rN7WEv8VoYascjTf33OF1sYdjSWlt9tzPJ_dul864U0fZa6ntc7HNfsxoC-uIQAvD_BwE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">SpotHero</a> or <a href="https://www.parkwhiz.com/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=123604754&amp;gbraid=0AAAAAD8rjr7Nw9Xxo4EiX_aK4DUNrKeRR&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAl-_JBhBjEiwAn3rN7eurgRdv_yS4s31zCGZWDA2wHOycTpqusb9cQeA1ONUqBR9RL1riBRoCcUgQAvD_BwE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ParkWhiz </a>to find more affordable parking options nearby.

From The Venue: Yes! A shuttle service will be provided from the venue back to the three room block hotels (Renaissance, Hyatt Centric, and JW Marriott) starting at 10:00 PM.

A Friendly Heads-Up: We want you celebrating with us, so we highly encourage skipping the car! NYE traffic will be extra chaotic—especially since Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve is filming in Chicago for the first time. Save yourself the stress and use our shuttle or a rideshare!

Brandi & Nicholas

Brandi & Nicholas

Our Foundation: A Love Story

Our Adventure: From Scroll to Stroll Down the Aisle

May 07, 2021

May 07, 2021

June 27, 2021

September 11, 2021

September 23, 2021

October 03, 2021

January 19, 2022

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March 17, 2022

July 24, 2022

September 02, 2022

March 02, 2023

March 04, 2023

October 22, 2023

January 08, 2024

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December 29, 2024