Rehearsal Dinner

CD & ME Special Events & Banquets

Wedding Day

Our Wedding

It all began on April 1, 2014 (yes, April Fools’ Day) when Brandon asked me to be his girlfriend. Bold move, considering the date. To this day, he still jokes that it’s the longest-running joke he’s ever pulled... but here we are over a decade later, so joke’s on him! We made it through the chaos of high school together, from homecoming dances and football games to promposals and handwritten notes in the hall. We even shared a locker! Before heading off to college, Brandon gave me a promise ring, a small but loving symbol of everything we hoped our future would hold. That night, we dressed up and went to Sullivan’s Steakhouse. Just two kids dreaming about everything ahead. College took us in different directions. Different schools, different teams, and different cities. We were chasing dreams on the field, balancing busy schedules, and figuring out adulthood one day at a time. Even after undergrad, both Brandon and I said one degree wasn’t enough! We each went on to earn our master’s degrees. Life threw a lot at us during those years, more than most people ever see so young. But somehow, we made growing up a little less stressful, and a lot more fun... mostly because we had each other to figure it out with. Those years shaped us, strengthened us, and reminded us that love isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present. Then, on our 10th anniversary, Brandon decided to commit to his joke forever. He got down on one knee and popped the question! And just like we did all those years ago, we celebrated the special moment at Sullivan’s Steakhouse—same place, same couple, just with a shinier ring and an even bigger love. Now, as we get ready to make it officially official, we can’t wait to celebrate with the people who have been part of our story from the very beginning. We seriously cannot wait to celebrate with you!

Best Joke Ever

Our Story

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Sammi’s sister and built-in best friend. When the two are together, they share one brain cell!

Jennifer Gurke

Brandon’s older brother and partner in endless conversations. Their topics jump from new music they found to what's going on in the sports world. Together, they can talk forever... and somehow survive each other’s takes without a fight. 

Christian Callender

From countless softball games and road trips to a secret handshake only they could pull off, Sam and Maria have a life-long friendship.

Fun fact: back before they were even dating, Brandon texted Maria to confess he liked Sam... making her an OG witness to this love story.

Maria Connell

Best friends since 6th grade. Brandon has probably spent more time at Collin's house than he ever has at Sammi's. 

Collin Hudetz

Sam & Ham grew up playing softball together. Brandon & Sam will say she's hands-down the funniest girl they know!

Hailey Schmittel

Emilio and Brandon were catch partners and were referred to as "The Brothers" by their teammates (I mean look at them). Most days, Brandon will text Emilio more than his future Bride. 

Emilio Guitron

Sam has known Brooklyn since they were young- playing softball on the same team from 4-18 years old. Over the years, the girls most memorable summers included  snacking on Lay’s chips, sipping Capri Suns, and setting up beauty pageants (where they were the only 2 contestants).  

Brooklyn Daly

Brandon’s college teammate and mentor... Gerke helped shape him both on and off the field. They bond over Chicago Bears, Miller Lite, and Pardon My Take.

Danny Gerke

Born just 56 days before Sammi and Brandon started dating in 2014, Fallon's age is the perfect reminder of how long they’ve been together. She always called Brandon “Uncle B” and soon started to call Sammi “Uncle Sammi". 

Fallon Callender

Cooper keeps everyone on their toes with his mischief and charm. He was also the very first family member to ASK to take a picture with Uncle B and Sammi immediately after their engagement. 

Cooper Callender

Wedding Party

Q + A

Please book by May 4th, 2026. After that date, any un-booked rooms will be released to the public and the discounted rate may no longer be available. We highly recommend booking early to ensure your stay is covered! Check In: 3pmCheck Out: 12pm

Hilton Garden Inn Chicago/Tinley Park

This hotel is located right next to the Hilton Garden Inn, (within walking distance) We do not have a specific room block under this hotel, but wanted to provide alternative options if Hilton Garden Inn does not have availability.

Brandon & Samantha

Brandon & Samantha

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