St. Isaac Jogues Catholic Church

Wedding Ceremony

The Morton Arboretum

Wedding Reception

DoubleTree by Hilton Lisle Naperville

Farewell Brunch

Our Wedding

We were in the same basic training (BEAST) squad when we first got to West Point. My first vivid memory of him is from the second week we were there. We were learning how to disassemble and reassemble rifles. I had no idea what I was doing, and I was going through a mid-life crisis at 18. I didn’t know if I was cut out for the military anymore. Sal on the other hand came from Chicago so obviously he could disassemble and reassemble a rifle in twenty seconds flat with his eyes closed. We were sitting next to each other while our squad leader was trying to drill all the steps into our heads for the five millionth time. I’m on the brink of tears and I’m homesick. Sal turns to me and says, “see? This isn’t so hard!”. I was so livid. How dare this pale kid with the ugly glasses (we couldn’t wear contacts during basic) talk to me, let alone tell me that this was easy. I bitterly vowed that once basic training was done, I would never associate with this kid again. I’m very happy that I didn’t keep my promise to myself but it’s always my favorite story to tell.

First Memories (Cat's Story)

We began dating in February 2023, after we had gotten to know each other through our mutual friends. What day it was is still up for debate because there wasn’t an official day, but we call it February 4th (which is definitely not the right day by the way). The two of us and our friends would watch movies together every weekend in my room since none of us had cars at the time, and me and my roommates had a projector. Cat and I started talking from there and hanging out on our own time. After getting to know each other better I eventually asked her if she would be my girlfriend, on February 3rd, and she said maybe. Where February 4th came from, I’m not sure, but I realized it was the wrong day several months later. Cat still thinks the 4th is the right day and that’s the day we celebrate our anniversary. A few days after I asked her out, her roommate came up to me in between classes and told me that Cat had told her we were now dating and that she was super excited. This was news to me because last we had spoken about it; she told me maybe. So that’s how I found out that we were dating. Through her friend. She also never said yes to me when I proposed so there seems to be a trend here.

When We First Started Dating (Sal's Story)

Our Story

Our Path Here!

Our Engagement Photos!

Photos

Located a mile from the reception, the DoubleTree by Hilton Lisle Naperville will also host the Farewell Brunch. To receive the group rate, call the hotel directly and use group code CTA.

Hyatt Regency Lisle near Naperville

Sheraton Lisle Naperville Hotel

Extended Stay America Select Suites - Chicago - Lisle

Hotel Information

The Morton Arboretum is a beautiful outdoor setting with various picturesque locations all offering stunning views of the Arboretum's gardens and tree collections;&nbsp;you can also explore the grounds before or after the event, taking advantage of the tram tours to see different areas of the Arboretum.&nbsp;As a guest of the wedding, your admission is included and you are welcome to explore at any time on the day of the wedding. This is an ideal place to walk around and capture beautiful photos between the ceremony and reception.

Millennium Park, located in the heart of Chicago, is a vibrant urban oasis that blends art, architecture, and nature. Opened in 2004, it features iconic attractions like the reflective "Cloud Gate" sculpture (also known as "The Bean"), the interactive Crown Fountain, and the striking Jay Pritzker Pavilion. The park hosts numerous cultural events, festivals, and performances throughout the year, making it a dynamic destination for both locals and visitors. Its beautifully landscaped gardens, open spaces, and stunning skyline views make Millennium Park a must-see spot in the city.

Millennium Park

The Magnificent Mile is Chicago's premier shopping and dining district, stretching along Michigan Avenue from the Chicago River to Oak Street. Known for its upscale stores, luxury boutiques, and high-end hotels, it's a bustling hub of activity and style. The Mile is also home to historic landmarks, iconic skyscrapers, and world-class museums, offering a blend of culture and commerce. Whether you're shopping, sightseeing, or enjoying fine dining, the Magnificent Mile is an essential part of the Chicago experience.

The Magnificent Mile

Visiting Wrigley Field is a must for baseball fans and anyone wanting to experience a piece of Chicago's rich history. Home to the Chicago Cubs, this iconic ballpark, opened in 1914, is one of the oldest Major League Baseball stadiums in the country. With its ivy-covered outfield walls and historic marquee, Wrigley Field offers a nostalgic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. Whether you're catching a game, exploring the ballpark's fascinating history, or simply enjoying the lively neighborhood, a trip to Wrigley Field is an unforgettable part of Chicago's sports culture.

Wrigley Field

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest and most beloved zoos in the United States, offering a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Located in the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Park, the zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, including lions, giraffes, and penguins. Best of all, admission is free, making it an accessible destination for families and animal lovers. With beautiful gardens, interactive exhibits, and seasonal events, Lincoln Park Zoo provides a perfect escape to nature right in the middle of the city.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Navy Pier is a bustling lakeside destination that offers something for everyone. Located along Lake Michigan, this iconic Chicago landmark features stunning views, family-friendly attractions, and a lively atmosphere. Visitors can ride the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the city, explore the Chicago Children's Museum, or enjoy outdoor concerts and festivals. Navy Pier is also home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and boat tours, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience the best of Chicago’s waterfront.

Navy Pier

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and most renowned art museums in the United States. Located in Grant Park, it houses an impressive collection of over 300,000 works of art, spanning thousands of years and cultures. Visitors can admire masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso, as well as world-class exhibits on everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. With its iconic bronze lion statues at the entrance and its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, the museum offers a rich cultural experience in the heart of Chicago.

The Art Institute of Chicago

Things to Do

Registry

The bride’s sister and go-to rant listener. She loves cats and unironically giving peace signs in every selfie ever (except this one). 

Mary Claire Theut

The bride’s youngest sister and professional baker. She decks people as a hobby. Fun fact: she’s the only one of the bride’s party that isn’t an engineering major.

Amelia Theut

The bride’s cousin and the Dutch Bros enthusiast.

Annabelle Nolan

The bride’s childhood best friend and professional chef and artist. She’s an Aggie grad!

Lauren Sorensen

The bride’s college bestie and the groom’s go-to homework helper. She and the bride have spent three West Point summers together!

Lauren Coleman

The groom’s most cherished civilian and favorite Canadian. He is bursting with pride for his favorite soldier boy <3 (also thoroughly enjoys hairless cats and raccoons)!!

Ben Groll

The groom’s high school friend. The two met when the groom decided to explore what lied at the end of a rainbow. Never ask this Irishman his height or how much he will be spending to purchase Sal truck.

Luke Brown

The groom's high school friend and a man of few words, but a huge passion for comics, Tom likes to bring the party with him wherever he goes. You’ll find him at the DJs booth, or enjoying a good Garfield comic. Keep an eye out for this elusive blond beau. P.S. ask him about the pipe strip or tech prague 

Tom O’Connor

The groom’s good friend since high school. When he is not resting in his mother’s bosom, he likes to stay inside away from the scary sun, play video games, and watch shows of revealing anime characters. His perpetual illness is overshadowed by his true inner beauty. 

Anthony Battaglia

The groom’s friend who has not changed his haircut or his sense of style since the first day they met in kindergarten. When he’s not designing HVAC machines, you can catch him going out to intimate dinners with his close friends or being denied internships at his family’s law firm. At the wedding, ask him about his Louis Armstrong impression, he loves to do it for people.

Griffin Vrdolyak

Sure, here’s a short, natural-sounding groomsman bio for Leyton Elmore: Leyton Elmore has been the groom’s roommate and close friend for years. He’s known for his easygoing vibe and quick wit, always keeping things light and reliable. Let me know if you want it more formal, funny, or casual, or if you want to add any specific details!

Leyton Elmore

Tanks, guns, ranting. You get it all with Ian Shahan. If you need someone to pick you up from jail at 2AM, give him a call. If you need someone to do the dishes, call someone else.

Ian Shahan

James Sharpe was a New Mexico lawyer whom received his JD from American Samoa college. He is now a Signal Corps officer with a passion for craft beer.

Catherine & Salvador

Catherine & Salvador

C&S

Wedding Ceremony

Wedding Reception

Farewell Brunch