Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Once upon a time, in a sunny coastal city called Izmir, Türkiye, a curious and determined girl named Gülen dreamed of seeing the world. Education became her passport, and adventure her constant companion. Her journey took her far beyond home, through classrooms and campuses in Türkiye, Japan, and the United States, where she built a life as a professor, shaping minds while collecting stories from every corner of the globe. No matter where she landed, Gülen carried with her a love for learning, culture, and possibility.Meanwhile, across the ocean in Rhode Island, a boy named Chris was growing up with salt air in his lungs and the quiet confidence of New England roots. After college in Boston, he answered a bigger call and joined the U.S. Navy. That decision turned the world into his map—each deployment bringing new countries, new cultures, and unforgettable experiences. Wherever duty took him, Chris carried a steady heart, a strong sense of purpose, and a spirit ready for the next horizon.For years, their paths crisscrossed the globe—never touching, but always moving closer.Then came May 2025.In a cozy coffee shop in Washington, DC, fate finally decided it was time. One conversation turned into hours. One coffee turned into many. And somehow, in the middle of a busy city, the world grew very small, just Gülen and Chris, laughing, talking, and realizing that something extraordinary was happening. What began as a simple meeting quickly became a love that felt familiar, effortless, and meant to be.From that day on, life moved fast—in the best way. Adventures were shared, dreams aligned, and love deepened with every moment.On November 26, 2025, surrounded by the charm and history of Providence, Rhode Island, Chris asked Gülen to spend forever with him—and she said yes. 💍Two worlds. Two journeys. One beautiful love story.And now, the greatest adventure of all begins—together. ❤️We can’t wait to celebrate our happily ever after with you.

How We Met (Thanks, Coffee! ☕️)

Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

Michelle entered Gülen’s life at just the right time—back when they were students at University of Pennsylvania. What started as a simple roommate arrangement quickly turned into something much bigger. Late-night talks, shared dreams, and plenty of laughter turned two only children into something they had both secretly wished for their whole lives: sisters by choice.​From that moment on, Michelle wasn’t just a friend—she was family. She celebrated every milestone right alongside Gülen, standing proudly by her side at both her Master’s graduation and her PhD graduation, cheering louder than anyone else in the room. Through stress, success, and everything in between, Michelle was always there—steady, supportive, and full of love.​Over the years, their bond only grew stronger. Michelle became the person who knew Gülen’s heart, her journey, and her dreams better than almost anyone. So it feels only fitting that on this most meaningful day, Michelle isn’t just standing next to Gülen—she is the one bringing everyone together.​Today, as the celebrant of the day, Michelle isn’t just helping Gülen tie the knot—she’s honoring a lifetime of friendship, sisterhood, and unconditional support. Quite simply, this day would not be complete without her.Best friends. Chosen sisters. Forever family. 💕

Michelle Go (Matron of Honor)

Selin entered Gülen’s life in San Diego, thanks to a mutual friend—and at exactly the moment she was needed most. Gülen was deep into her PhD years, living on coffee, determination, and far too little sleep. Stress was high, nights were long, and deadlines were relentless.And then there was Selin. 💫​She brought laughter into the chaos, joy into the exhaustion, and a reminder that life wasn’t meant to be taken too seriously—even during the toughest chapters. Selin was always there to share amazing moments, plan fun events, and make sure Gülen remembered how to breathe, laugh, and live.Very quickly, they discovered a tradition worth keeping: Gülen’s birthday became the perfect excuse for an annual trip to Las Vegas. And well… they say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas 😉—but what definitely didn’t stay there was the friendship. It only grew stronger with every trip, every memory, and every uncontrollable laugh.​Through the years, distance never mattered. Their bond deepened, their stories multiplied, and Selin remained one of Gülen’s greatest sources of joy, support, and fun.​So it’s only fitting that today, Selin stands by Gülen’s side as her Maid of Honor—the one who turned stress into laughter, birthdays into legendary adventures, and friendship into something truly lifelong.​Partner in crime. Keeper of memories. Maid of Honor forever. 💕✨

Selin Esener (Maid of Honor)

Ayşe and Gülen met during their student days at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, at a time when life revolved around classes, deadlines, and chasing big dreams. They were both working hard, studying harder, and doing everything they could to build the future they imagined for themselves.​School was stressful, and Urbana-Champaign could feel especially challenging for two free-spirited, social souls. But instead of letting the pressure dim their light, these two decided to do what came naturally—find joy where they were. They laughed, explored the little town, created their own fun, and slowly but surely, a beautiful friendship began to grow.​What truly bonded them was how similar they were: big dreamers with hopeful hearts, always believing there was more life waiting beyond the next chapter. Through the years, their friendship deepened, shaped by shared experiences, support, and an unspoken understanding of each other’s hopes and ambitions.​When Ayşe found the love of her life, Gülen proudly stood by her side as a bridesmaid. And now, as Gülen begins her own forever, it’s Ayşe’s turn—standing beside her once again, this time as Gülen’s bridesmaid. A full-circle friendship. 💖

Ayse Okesli-Armlovich (Bridesmaid)

Lizzy may be Chris’s cousin by family tree, but in real life, she has always been so much more than that. Growing up together, Lizzy became the sister Chris never had. As an only child, Chris found in Lizzy a built-in best friend—someone who shared childhood memories, laughter, support, and a bond that only grows stronger with time. To Chris, Lizzy has always been family in the deepest sense of the word.​When Gülen entered Chris’s life, she quickly understood just how special Lizzy was to him. Although Gülen and Lizzy didn’t have many chances to spend time together at first, one thing was immediately clear: anyone who is this important to Chris is already family.​So asking Lizzy to stand as a bridesmaid today was never a question—it was a promise. A promise of love, connection, and a future where cousins become sisters, and families grow not just by name, but by heart.​Today, Lizzy doesn’t just stand beside the bride—she steps into a new chapter as Gülen’s sister too. 💕

Lizzy Egan (Bridesmaid)

Sevgi may technically be Gülen’s second cousin, but that label has never come close to capturing who she truly is. Their mothers are first cousins, yet from the very beginning, Gülen and Sevgi grew up sharing the same dreams, the same laughter, and a connection that always felt deeper than titles or family trees. In their hearts, they were never “second” anything—just cousins, and something even closer.​Life and education took them on different paths. Sevgi built her life in England, while Gülen moved to the United States. After graduation, their journeys stretched even farther, carrying them to different countries, cultures, and chapters. Distance became a constant—but it never became a barrier.​No matter how many miles stood between them, they always knew one thing for certain: they would always be there for each other. In moments of excitement or uncertainty, Sevgi remained one of Gülen’s greatest sources of strength, understanding, and quiet support.​So today, as Gülen takes this next step in life, there was never a question about who should be by her side. Gülen simply couldn’t imagine tying the knot without Sevgi standing with her—heart to heart, just as always. 💕

Sevgi Usta (Bridesmaid)

John Green (Best Man)

Tom Gallagher (Groomsmen)

Michael Egan (Groomsmen)

Brad Stinehart (Groomsmen)

Devanka Aluwihare (Groomsmen)

Juliet is Michelle’s first child—and from the very moment she arrived, she gave Gülen one of her favorite titles ever: Auntie. 💕 Becoming “Auntie Gülen” for the first time was a milestone filled with love, laughter, and a whole lot of joy, and Juliet has been stealing hearts ever since.​With her bright spirit, sweet smile, and playful energy, Juliet brings happiness wherever she goes. Let’s be honest—without her, this wedding just wouldn’t be nearly as fun. She adds the magic, the giggles, and the unforgettable moments that make the day truly special.​So it’s only fitting that today, Juliet takes on the very important role of Flower Girl at Auntie Gülen’s big day—spreading petals, smiles, and a little extra sparkle down the aisle. 🌸✨

Juliet Andonian (Flower Girl)

Maggie is Michelle’s second child—and from the very beginning, she has been lovingly known as mini Michelle. With her sweet presence and adorable charm, Maggie made Gülen a happy Auntie for the second time, doubling the love and joy in her heart. 💕Even though she’s little, Maggie has a big personality and a way of making everyone smile just by being herself. Together with her big sister Juliet, she brings extra laughter, warmth, and pure happiness to every moment.Having Maggie as part of the wedding makes the day even more special. As one of Auntie Gülen’s Flower Girls, she adds softness, sweetness, and a touch of magic that only a child can bring. 🌸✨

Maggie Andonian (Flower Girl)

Mavi is Ayşe’s beautiful daughter—and a very special part of Gülen’s heart. Years ago, Gülen proudly stood by Ayşe’s side as her bridesmaid, celebrating her love story and new beginning. Now, life has come full circle in the sweetest way.​Today, it’s Mavi’s turn to be part of Gülen’s big day—stepping into the role of Flower Girl for her Auntie Gülen. With her gentle smile, bright eyes, and joyful spirit, Mavi brings innocence, love, and a little bit of magic to the celebration.​What makes this moment extra special is the bond it represents: friendship that turned into family, and love that continues into the next generation. 💕

Mavi Armlovich (Flower Girl)

Kaan is Ayşe’s wonderful son and someone who holds a very special place in Gülen’s heart. Kaan made Auntie Gülen extra happy by becoming her very first nephew. From day one, he brought smiles, laughter, and unforgettable joy into her life. 💙​Now, Kaan has been given a very serious and exciting role. On this big day, he will be the Ring Bearer—also known as the official little security agent of the wedding. 🕶️✨With confidence, charm, and a big sense of responsibility, he’ll be making sure those rings are delivered safely and right on time.​Important mission.Big responsibility.And the cutest security agent on duty. 💍💙

Gulen & Chris

Gulen & Chris

G&C

Wedding Day