Oak Hill Farm

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail hour

Reception

Our Wedding

If you RSVP'd for the shuttle, there will be 2 pick up times from the Country Inn and Suites Galena; 3pm, and 3;15pm with service to Oak Hill for 4pm ceremony. It takes ~33 minutes to get from the Galena hotel to the wedding venue. Remember, check in is at 3pm, so don't expect to arrive at hotel and have time to check in, get ready, and catch the shuttle.There will be 2 departing shuttle times from Oak Hill back to the hotel; 10:30pm and 11pm.Oak Hill Farm is located at 8044 N Gabel Lane, Apple River, IL 61001

Shuttle

Our story started in a bit of an untraditional sense, when I swiped right and matched with Taylor in 2017. Taylor replied, "I don't live in Dubuque, but my twin brother does, so if you like what you see, here's his number, text him". After several unsuccessful online dating endeavors, I thought, sure why not, what do I have to lose? Connor and I exchanged numbers, and eventually connected in May of 2018. Our first date was May 7, 2018, when we played 18 holes on the Lacoma blue course. If you can survive 18 holes together, you can survive anything. We have since shared 7 years of laughter, adventures, and life together with our beloved 4-legged kids Moose and Selleck. On Christmas Eve morning in 2023, under a charming covered bridge in Menomonee Falls, WI, Connor popped the question, with Selleck's assistance. And just like that, our love story, which began on a golf course, took another unforgettable swing—this time, straight into forever.

Our Story

Photos

Kelli has been my best friend since DAY 1, having been next door neighbors and BFFs for the 1st 16 years of our lives. From roller-blading and biking through the hood, to arguing over the last slice of Domino's pizza (I never won), to weathering the ups and downs of life, we truly have had a life-long friendship.  The inside jokes are endless, and the embarrassing childhood memories are never forgotten!  You are more than a friend, you are my "big sis". As I step into this new chapter of my life, I’m so grateful to have you by my side! Kelli resides in Phoenix, AZ with her husband Joe, and 3 beautiful children: Kenzie, Tatum, and Ronan.

Kelli Lounds

Liz and I went to high school together, but our friendship truly started freshman year of college, when we were roomies in Mayflower (601A, represent!).  Liz and I lived together all 6 years I was in Iowa City.  We have made more memories together than any other person I know, and we've probably forgotten half of them!  From house parties, to bar crawls, to late night study sessions, every memory of my time at the University of Iowa has Liz in it.  We have done a lot of traveling together; Vegas, New Orleans, Chicago, Nashville, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic.... we always find an airport mimi (sometimes a few) and we always have a good travel story to tell. When "Em and Liz" show up, it's always a party. So happy you'll be at my side on the big day. Liz resides in Iowa City, and I still try to keep the dream alive when I visit!

Liz Conlon

Kenz and I grew up walking to Grandma Peggy and Grandpa Mel's house every Tuesday after school. We played countless board games and always enjoyed some heated family euchre games.  As we got older, we spent holidays baking with Gram, reminiscing and laughing.  You are not just my cousin, but one of my best friends.  Also, I hope you're enjoying MY meat grinder as much as I would be if I still had it (Grandma's watching... better give it back?!). Kenzie lives in East Dubuque with her husband Jay, and their 3 beautiful kids Thomas, Theo, and Charley.


Mackenzie Sertle

Schwemm and I met in pharmacy school, and one of us studied really hard!  Along with Liz, Schwemm and I made A LOT of memories in Iowa City. From bar crawls, football games, late night studying, to our pharmacy class cruise, our friendship has been full of fun and laughter!  Ann resides in the twin cities with her partner Aaron, and 2 beautiful boys Emmett and Henry!

Ann Schwemm

I met Ani (through Chuck) in pharmacy school.  We became quick friends through our love of Iowa City, the hawks, and enjoying the downtown establishments.  We spent summers playing softball in Coralville and drinking a few cold ones and singing karaoke after!  We both have a strong appreciation for no non-sense, no-BS type of fun. Our greatest accomplishment was cheering on the lady hawks to the 2024 Big Ten Tourney championship! Go hawks! Ani and Chuck live in the Twin Cities with their 2 beautiful children, Olive and Anders.  Olive has been a great friend to Moose and Selleck :)

Ani Jordan

Farah and Emily's friendship dates back to the Wahlert high school days, but we became close friends in Pharmacy School.  Probably can't find 2 bigger hawk fans!  We have shared time together on the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy Genesis Board for the past decade, and have LOTS of memories together in Iowa City.  One of our most notable memories was experiencing "Flav's Fried Chicken" in Clinton, IA! Farah lives in the DC area with her husband Brandon and their beautiful son Michael.

Farah Towfic

Chuck and I went to pharmacy school together.  He was/is like my "big brother"; we spent a lot of time studying together and well, partying downtown.  Chuck and I share a love of cooking and good wine, and the food is always good when we get together!  Even though 15 years have passed since pharmacy school graduation, we pick right up where we left off.  Like Ani, our best accomplishment was witnessing the lady hawks win the 2024 Big Ten Tourney! Go hawks!

Chuck Howald

Our shenanigans together started in high school, and our friendship quickly formed summer after our senior year, with many memorable camp outs. We stayed close during college, making weekend visits to campus parties or trips to Chicago to celebrate St. Patty's day.  You've always been a great friend, and it's always a fun weekend when we get together!  Our friendship has spanned decades now, and I'm so glad you are part of our special day!  Jeremy lives in the Quad Cities area with his wife Suzy and their 3 kiddos, Cooper, Olive, and Simon.

Jeremy Esch (AKA "Lil Bitch")

Like Jeremy, our friendship quickly formed summer after our senior year of high school, with many memorable camp outs on your family's property!  Liz and I made several memorable road trips to visit you at St. Louis University and Notre Dame.  Your adventurous spirit has taken you many places, but whenever we get together, we pick right up where we left off.  I am so happy you will be part of our special day Willyom!

Will Osterholz

Connor first met Taylor in the womb; fighting over mother's nutrients!  It would appear Connor would win that fight as Taylor was born with a broken nose and triangle head; while Connor came out looking like a "Gerber Baby" (Nancy's words, not mine!).   It has been a wild ride since that fateful day filled with brotherly love and plenty of life long memories.  Whether switching places to fool teachers in kindergarten, shooting each other with BB guns, or rooting against the Green Bay Packers...they've always found a way to ensure they're on the same team and fighting for the same cause.  To be a twin is to be born with having a best friend since birth; having a life long teammate, motivator and companion.  Luckily for me, Taylor has been everything and more.  

Fun Facts:  Taylor is a life long Detroit Lions fan.  Taylor actually matched up with Emily on Bumble (Online Dating App) when helping Connor move to his new apartment in Dubuque.  Taylor was the starting cornerback and fullback for the notorious Owatonna Huskies 2004 football team that went 5-4.  

Taylor resides in Madison, Wisconsin with his two daughters, Lauren and Mara, and his dog, Gwen.  

Taylor Rucks (a.k.a "T-Mac", "Mr. Mom", "Tay-Tay")

The Rucks brothers first interaction with Corey was watching him single handily destroy their basketball team on the hard courts in the 3rd grade.  Even worse was having to watch their own father and head coach struggle to come up with a defensive game plan.  This would be a continued theme over the next few years until they were finally able to compete on the same team during the 6th grade.  This would be the start of a lifelong friendship filled with memories of shenanigans and Tom Foolery.  Corey was Connor's college roommate for 4 years at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where they would also become fraternity brothers at Sigma Chi.  

Fun Facts:  Corey was the sole reason Connor was able to pass two semesters of Spanish and multiple other classes at UW-Madison as he let him ride on his coattails.  They both would go on to earn Zoology degrees.  Corey and his wife, Erin, own their own Dog Daycare business in Des Moines, Iowa.  

Corey resides in Clive, Iowa with his wife, Erin, and their dogs, Emma, Kinsey, Pepper and Randy.  

Corey Bird (a.k.a. "Bird", "Birdman")

Connor first met John on the top of a party boat on the Lake Mendota during a Sigma Chi fraternity rush event during their freshman year of college.  They quickly bonded over their love to indulge in libations and a life long friendship was born.  John would be Connor's college roommate for 4 years at the University of Wisconsin.  One of the highlights of their college years was going to Europe on spring break where they were able to visit London, Paris and most importantly the Red Lights district in Amsterdam.  They've been able to maintain a strong friendship throughout the years even with John living all over the world.  

Fun Fact:  During their sophomore year,  Connor and John would stay-in instead of going out to drink so they could watch the TV show, "The L Word", and were able to watch the entire 6 seasons of the series.  John and his wife Chelsey lived and taught English in China for 8 years before moving to Hawaii and starting their own tutoring business.  John lives in Kona, Hawaii with his wife Chelsey and their dog, Hailuo ("Conch shell" in Mandarin).  

John Dietrich (a.k.a. "Deetch")

The Rucks brothers first met Brad in 4th grade at Lincoln Elementary.  You might say their friendship got off to a rocky start during their first sleepover at the Uher residence.  While Brad's parents where away, they managed to destroy not only a large antique doll, but also the vacuum attempting to clean up the mess they made.  Luckily, it was all water under the bridge.  Brad was the first person to show Connor and Taylor how to download songs and movies illegally by using Napster and Limewire.  Brad was the main person to encourage Connor to go out for wrestling in the 9th grade.  They eventually become co-captains their senior year while guiding their team to become the 2005 3AAA MN wrestling state team champions (Ranked #6 nationally).  

Fun Fact:  Brad makes his own fishing lures from scratch and sells them online.  Brad was the starting wingback for the notorious Owatonna Huskies 2004 football team that went 5-4.  Brad lives in Lino Lakes, MN with his wife, Mackenzie and their three daughters, Scarlet, Vivian and Meadow and their two cats, Littleman and Little One. 

Brad Uher (a.k.a "B-Rad", "The Jackel", "Braditto")

Connor and Nick first crossed paths in 4th grade on the same tackle football team, where their dads were co-head coaches. Their friendship would blossom over the years, with many unforgettable memories.  Along the way, Nick introduced Connor to the world of electronic music; a life altering moment indeed.  They would continue their friendship as they both would go on to college the University of Wisconsin-Madison.  Even when Connor lived in Miami, Nick would made frequent trips to visit to enjoy the warm weather and nightlife.  Both share a strong love for Badger sports, whether it’s football, basketball, or women’s volleyball.
Fun Fact: Nick was the starting power tackle for the notorious Owatonna Huskies 2004 football team that went 5-4.  Nick resides in Edina, MN with his wife Nikki and their children Oliver and Stellan, and their dog Yoshi.  

Nick Mattison (a.k.a "DJ Mad Dog", "Mad Dog")

Connor and Eric’s friendship began at the age of 5, when a fateful meeting in Kindergarten led to their first playdate going to see the movie Aladdin in theaters.  Eric got to witness Connor's narcolepsy first hand as he fell asleep within the first five minutes.  Eric would become a lifelong friend of the Rucks brothers.  They were in the same Boy Scouts troop (made it all the way to Webelos!).   They also were on many same sport teams throughout the years including tee ball, baseball and soccer.  

Fun Fact: Eric plays the saxophone.  He is a loyal Green Bay Packer fan.  Eric was the starting free safety for the notorious Owatonna Huskies 2004 Football team that went 5-4.  Eric lives in Minneapolis, MN with his significant other Brienna and their two daughters, Reese and Marley, their two dogs Louie and Bruno, and their two cats Searles and Kitten.  

Eric Risberg (a.k.a. "The Riz", "Riz", "Swede")

Connor and Casey first became friends during their sophomore year at high school.  It was Casey's first time playing in one of the Rucks brothers poker tournaments held in their father's basement. Casey, a newcomer to the group, was able to use his cunning strategy to secure a legendary victory that would go down in history as "The Miracle on Butternut." This unexpected triumph marked the start of a lifelong friendship filled with unforgettable moments.  Through the years, their bond has been fueled by a shared love of Cribbage, and no matter how busy life gets, they always find time to sneak in a few rounds.


Fun Fact: Casey is a former MMA fighter.  Casey was the starting strong safety for the notorious Owatonna Huskies 2004 Football team that went 5-4.  Casey resides in Owatonna, MN with his wife Alex, their daughter Lennox, their dogs Cash and Frankie and their cats Milo, Mia, Charlotte and Wren.  

Casey Johnson (a.k.a. "Johns", "Case", "CJ")

Connor and Aurie’s friendship began in their sophomore year of college, and it was instant—thanks to their shared sense of humor.  They created many memories together, from working at the same Russian dumpling restaurant to waiting tables at TPC Madison.  Some of their best times were spent at Aurie’s parents’ cabin in Door County, where debauchery and tomfoolery were always on the agenda.  Aurie has been a lifelong friend to Connor, always up for a good time and ready to make more memories along the way.

Fun Fact:  Connor and Aurie were the only non-couples in the theatre when they went to watch the movie, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.  Aurie is originally from Rockford, Illinois.  He currently resides in Chicago.  

Aurin Chapman (a.k.a. "Aurie")

Connor and Big Red’s friendship began in junior high, where they bonded over football, basketball, and a shared love of mischief. Their high school days were filled with memorable pranks—whether it was trying to sell oregano as weed, icing each other’s cars, or sneaking roadkill into each other’s vehicles, laughs were never in short supply. Beyond the jokes, Big Red is always up for a good debate, armed with a wealth of knowledge on American politics and history.

Fun Fact:  Big Red was the first person to take both Connor and Taylor up to Deja Vu in Minneapolis for them to get their free birthday dance when they turned 18.  Matt resides in Des  Moines, Iowa.  

Matthew Englestad (a.k.a. "Red", "Big Red", "Pelir Rojo", "Don Vito", "Tri-Pod")

Connor and Josh first met at Washington Elementary, but it wasn’t until their freshman year of high school that their friendship truly began.  As teammates on the football field, they built a strong bond, further strengthened by their shared love of electronic music. Their friendship continued through college, with annual trips to Duluth and Madison to visit each other.  

Fun Facts:  Josh was selected to the 2005 MN football All-Star game.  He was the starting defensive tackle for the notorious Owatonna Huskies 2004 football team that went 5-4.  Josh is a DIEHARD Minnesota Vikings fan and season ticket holder and was invited by the NFL to attend the 2024 NFL draft.  He owns his own realtor group in Minneapolis, MN.  He lives with his wife, Angela, and their two dogs, Buck and Zero in Minneapolis, MN.  

Josh Pelovsky (a.k.a. "Plopps", "Plopper", "P-Diddy")

Wedding Party

Q + A

The booking code to quote when you call for your reservation is&nbsp;Vyverberg &amp; Rucks&nbsp;Wedding 2025. Alternatively, we strongly suggest using the link below to book a room in our block. The room block is held until May 14, 2025. Please note; you can book a one-night stay at the hotel, but check-in is at 3 PM, and the wedding is at 4 PM—about 30 minutes away. This may not allow enough time to check in and get ready. If you call the hotel, they will tell you there is a 2-night minimum. They are wrong, we got an exception, so please utilize the provided link, and edit nights stay to "1".

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Galena, IL

We do not have a hotel block here, but a good lodging option. No shuttle service to/from this lodging location.

Stoney Creek Inn Galena

Irish Cottage Inn & Suites

Private home rentals in the Galena Territories, no shuttle service to/from this lodging location.

Vacation homes of Galena

Travel

Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa offers a beautiful lodging Inn, golf courses, spa, and many private rental homes.

Eagle Ridge Inn

If you aren't from the area, here is a list of things to discover in the Galena area! -Make a stop at Blaum Brothers Distillery – a favorite among locals and tourists alike!-Visit one of the many museums and historical sites in Galena-Go wine tasting – there are numerous local wineries and winery tours-Indulge in retail therapy at the numerous boutique shops on Main Street in Galena-Hike and picnic at the Apple River Canyon State Park or Mississippi Palisades State Park-Take a hot air balloon ride, go kayaking or zipliningEnjoy a beer at the Galena Brewing Company-Wander the galleries in downtown Galena-Galena is golf country! Enjoy one of the many courses in the area (See Eagle Ridge above)-Indulge in a spa day (See Eagle Ridge above)-Participate in a ghost tour or take in a live performance downtown-Dine at one of the many excellent restaurants in Galena-Unwind on a romantic river cruise on the mighty Mississippi River-Relax and enjoy your time in our beautiful corner of the Midwest

Dubuque Area activities (~20 minutes from Galena, IL)🌊 Indoor &amp; Outdoor Attractions National Mississippi River Museum &amp; AquariumExplore interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and a 3D/4D theater at this Smithsonian-affiliated museum. Kids can learn about river ecosystems and history in an engaging environment.&nbsp;This is a must-do for kids!<a href="https://www.rivermuseum.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.rivermuseum.org/</a> Grand Harbor Resort &amp; WaterparkEnjoy a 25,000-square-foot indoor waterpark featuring slides, a lazy river, and a multi-story treehouse. It's a perfect spot for water fun regardless of the weather.&nbsp;<a href="https://grandharborresort.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://grandharborresort.com/</a> Fenelon Place ElevatorRide the world's shortest and steepest scenic railway for panoramic views of downtown Dubuque and the Mississippi River. Adults $4 round trip, children 5-12 $2 round trip, children &lt; 5 free.&nbsp;Cash only, pay at the top!<a href="https://www.fenelonplaceelevator.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.fenelonplaceelevator.com/</a> Field of Dreams Movie Site&nbsp;The Field of Dreams Movie Site in Dyersville, Iowa, is a cherished destination where cinematic history and baseball nostalgia converge. Originally constructed in 1988 for the iconic film Field of Dreams, this baseball diamond nestled amid cornfields has become a symbol of hope and the enduring spirit of America's pastime.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.fieldofdreamsmoviesite.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.fieldofdreamsmoviesite.com/</a> 🌳 Parks &amp; Outdoor Fun Dubuque Arboretum &amp; Botanical GardensStroll through beautifully maintained gardens, observe the outdoor art, or have fun at the children’s playgrounds. <a href="https://dubuquearboretum.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dubuquearboretum.net/</a> Eagle Point ParkFor a nominal entrance fee, families can enjoy playgrounds, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.&nbsp;A must see to take in the beauty of the mighty Mississippi!<a href="http://www.dubuqueeaglepointpark.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.dubuqueeaglepointpark.com/</a> Mines of Spain Recreation AreaEmbark on hiking trails, observe wildlife, and visit the historic Julien Dubuque Monument in this expansive natural area.&nbsp;The Julien Dubuque Monument site offers a parking lot, with just a short walk on a paved trail to a beautifully scenic view of the Mississippi River.&nbsp;Another “Dubuque” must do!<a href="https://www.minesofspain.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.minesofspain.org/</a> 🛍️ Markets &amp; Festivals Dubuque Farmers’ MarketEvery Saturday morning, explore Iowa’s oldest farmers’ market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and live music—perfect for a family outing.<a href="https://www.dubuquefarmersmarket.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.dubuquefarmersmarket.org/</a> 🏛️ Iconic Dubuque Restaurants Brazen Open Kitchen + BarChef Kevin Scharpf (Top Chef contestant) leads this modern American restaurant focused on farm-to-table freshness. A culinary destination for foodies seeking craft cocktails and artful plating.📍 Historic Millwork District🌟 Trendy and award-winning, but still welcoming. Timmerman’s Supper Club (East Dubuque, IL)Perched on a bluff with panoramic views of the Mississippi River, this classic supper club serves steaks, seafood, and old-school cocktails. A favorite for celebrations and sunset dinners.📍 Across the bridge—worth the short drive🌟 Retro elegance meets riverfront views. Paul's TavernAn old-school burger joint with a no-frills vibe. If you want a griddle-seared burger, a cold beer, and a slice of Dubuque history, this is your stop.📍 Locust Street🌟 Locals-only vibe with timeless appeal. Mario’s Italian RestaurantOne of the oldest family-owned Italian restaurants in town. Red-checkered tables, hearty pasta portions, and a vibe that hasn’t changed in decades—in the best way.📍 Main Street🌟 Nostalgic, warm, and authentic.<a href="https://mariosdbq.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://mariosdbq.com/</a> Shot Tower InnA long-standing family restaurant serving pizzas, pastas, with a small game area for kids. Loved for its throwback atmosphere and comfort food.📍 Locust Street🌟 Retro pizza place with loyal fans.<a href="https://shottowerinn.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://shottowerinn.com/</a> Happy Joe’s Pizza &amp; Ice CreamA nostalgic spot for many locals, combining pizza with a celebratory vibe (and sirens for birthday kids!). A Dubuque classic for families.📍 Multiple locations in Dubuque🌟 Quirky, loud, and full of childhood memories. Copper KettleA Dubuque favorite for casual dining with a creative twist. Known for gourmet burgers, great appetizers, and a rotating selection of craft beers, Copper Kettle blends comfort food with upscale flair. The rustic-chic decor and warm service make it a go-to for locals, whether you’re grabbing brunch, lunch, or a laid-back dinner.📍 Jackson Street🌟 Relaxed vibe, reliably delicious, and locally beloved.

Things to Do

Registry

Connor and I both fell in love with Oak Hill Farm the moment we stepped onto the property! Maybe it was the chocolate lab that greeted us, or the miniature donkeys, but it is a wonderfully charming space and was an easy YES for both of us. The property has many unique features, including a chapel, the woodland forest, a schoolhouse, a country store, and the reception pavilion. Check it out: https://oakhillweddings.com/about/

Emily & Connor

Emily & Connor

Q + A

Where should we stay?

Are children welcome at the wedding?

What is the dress code?

How do we get to the wedding venue?

Is there an open bar?

How do we RSVP?

Will your wedding be indoors or outdoors?

Is there parking at the venue?

Is there a shuttle?