St. James' Catholic Church

Wedding Ceremony

Madden Hall at St. James Catholic School

Wedding Reception

John and Kelli’s Big Day! 

Our Wedding

Our love story began in the most unexpected but beautifully modern way — on CatholicMatch.com. What started as a few exchanged messages soon turned into something much deeper. From the very beginning, we knew we shared something special: a strong faith, a love for family, and a hope for a future rooted in connection and meaning. Our first date was on March 7th, 2024 — a day that now holds a permanent place in our hearts. There was something magical about that evening. Whether it was the way we instantly clicked, or how our conversations flowed effortlessly, it felt like we had known each other for much longer. One of the strongest bonds between us has always been our families. We’re both incredibly close to them, and it was clear early on that we shared the same values: love, loyalty, and faith at the center of everything. We often talk about how blessed we are to have found each other — two people with roots that run deep and hearts open to God’s plan. As the weeks turned into months, our relationship continued to blossom in the most natural, joy-filled way. Every conversation, every shared laugh, every quiet moment brought us closer. We spent time learning the little things that make each other smile — favorite meals, childhood stories, dreams for the future — and found that our hearts beat in the same rhythm. One of the sweetest chapters in our story was our trip to Brown County. It was a getaway full of charm and adventure — winding roads lined with trees, small-town warmth, and time spent simply enjoying each others presence. Whether we were wine tasting at Oliver Winery or sharing stories over dinner, those days became some of our favorite memories. That trip reminded us how easy it is to be together — how much we simply fit. Then came a moment that changed everything, in the most beautiful way. On a seemingly ordinary Friday evening, John completely surprised me. There was no big build-up, no hint of what was to come — just a quiet moment that suddenly became unforgettable. With love in his eyes, he asked me to spend forever with him. And in that instant, I knew I was saying yes not just to John, but to the life we were building — one filled with faith, laughter, and love. Since that unforgettable night, we have been joyfully stepping into this new chapter together — planning our wedding with full hearts and grateful spirits. From choosing the perfect church to picking out songs that reflect our journey, every little detail feels like a reflection of our love and the life we’re building. We’ve found joy not just in the planning itself, but in doing it together — sharing decisions, dreaming aloud, and leaning on the values that brought us together in the first place. As we look ahead, we are filled with gratitude — for the way God brought us together, for the love that continues to grow between us, and for the future He is preparing for us. We know that marriage isn’t just a celebration, but a vocation — one we are honored to step into with faith, courage, and joy. We’re so excited for the life that awaits us — full of laughter, family gatherings, quiet mornings, new adventures, and all the beautiful unknowns that come with saying “yes” to love and to God’s plan.

Our Love Story ❤️

Our Story

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Photos

The Dream Team

Kelli's Girls

From the moment I met Heather, I had no idea she’d become the person I’d turn to for every laugh, every tear, and every adventure in between. Our story begins in college, on an ordinary day turned extraordinary by sheer chance. I had just locked myself out of my apartment (a normal occurrence) and was killing time in my brother’s place when his roommate—Heather’s brother—looked over and said, almost conspiratorially, “You should be friends with my sister.” In that instant, a spark was lit that neither of us could have anticipated.

Our first real hangout happened not in a café or a dorm common room, but in the USI Gym. We were both killing time between classes, and when I pulled out my iPod Touch, “Send It On” by Disney Stars started playing. I glanced over to find Heather mouthing the words along with me, eyes alight with recognition. In that shared moment—humming the chorus in unison—we both knew: this was the beginning of something special.

Over the next two years, Heather and I became inseparable roommates. From our Thursday night “The Vampire Diaries” date nights, to our one (and only) hula-hoop experience (only to be described as “disastrous”), we laughed until our sides hurt. We perfected our best (and most ridiculous) British accents, laughed at spilled milk, and amused ourselves endlessly by observing our more… colorful roommates. Every little oddity and every quirk bound us closer.

Through every triumph and trial over the last 16 years—first loves, heartbreaks, family joys and sorrows—Heather has been my constant. She’s celebrated my successes as if they were her own and offered me a shoulder to cry on when life felt overwhelming. And when the day came for me to walk down the aisle, there was no question who would be standing by my side. I couldn’t imagine anyone else sharing that moment, or any of the moments that came before or after. Heather is more than my best friend—she’s the family I chose

Heather

I’ve known Jessica my whole life—growing up in the same small town and attending the same school—but once she started dating my brother Mark back in October 2006, she seamlessly stepped into our lives, and over the years, our relationship has only grown stronger.

Once we left school and entered the “real world,” our bond deepened as we navigated new challenges side by side: career milestones, moving to new cities, and learning how to balance adult responsibilities. Through it all, Jessica has been one of my closest confidants—I trust her with my innermost thoughts and secrets, knowing she’ll always offer wise counsel and unconditional support.

Her kindness and loyalty are matched only by her devotion as a mother. Watching Jessica with my nephews and nieces—Judd, Morgan, and Jett—fills me with admiration. She pours endless love, patience, and creativity into their lives, creating a warm, joyful home for them to grow up in.

I truly believe God blessed our family the moment Jessica walked into it. I am so grateful for everything she brings to my life and everyone else’s around her. There’s no one else I’d rather have standing by me on my wedding day than my wonderful sister-in-law and lifelong friend, Jessica.


Jess

I’ve known Leigh Ann my whole life—she’s not just my cousin but my very first and truest best friend. From our earliest days, we’ve shared every family milestone and mishap side by side: birthdays, holidays, reunions, and even the moments when things got messy.

Growing up in a big, lively family, we quickly learned that surviving our wonderfully chaotic clan meant having each other’s backs. Whether it was sneaking out for trips to the woods, whispering secrets under covers during sleepovers, or strategizing how to meet up later to discuss the family “tea” at Thanksgiving, Leigh Ann and I were inseparable partners in crime—and comfort.

Through every joy and heartache—graduations, first loves, losses, and late-night heart-to-hearts—her loyalty and fierce love have never wavered. Leigh Ann knows exactly how to make me laugh when I’m down, and she’s the first person I call with any bit of news, big or small.

I feel so blessed that the person who’s been by my side since day one will also be standing with me on my wedding day. Having Leigh Ann as both my cousin and my best friend is the greatest gift of all.

Leigh Ann

From the moment I met Jenn at the Young Adult Group event at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, I knew she was someone special. As she greeted everyone with a warm smile and genuine curiosity, I remember thinking, “She seems cool—I want to be her friend!” That first impression quickly blossomed into a deep and lasting friendship grounded in our shared faith.

Jenn has been my rock in every sense of the word. Whether we’re celebrating life’s victories or navigating its toughest challenges, her unwavering kindness and caring heart shine through. Together, we’ve prayed through moments of joy and lifted each other up during times of doubt and sorrow. Her steadfast love of the Lord inspires me daily, reminding me to lean into faith no matter what comes our way.

Through laughter and tears, Jenn and I have always emerged stronger, bound by our trust in God and in each other. As I prepare for the biggest day of my life, I am so grateful that she will be standing beside me, not just as my dear friend but as a sister in faith. There is no one else I’d rather have by my side as we continue this beautiful journey together.

Jenn

From the very first time I met Melissa, her warmth and kindness shone through. She has a heart that overflows with care—for her family, her friends, and everyone she meets. As a devoted wife to my soon-to-be brother-in-law, she brings out the very best in him with her gentle encouragement and unwavering support. As a mother, she pours boundless love into her children, nurturing them with patience, laughter, and a deep-rooted faith in God. Melissa’s life is a testament to living with grace, compassion, and steadfast belief. I feel so blessed that this faith-filled, loving woman will be standing at my side on my wedding day, sharing in the joy of our family’s newest chapter.

Melissa

Jessica is the kind of person who turns ordinary days into little celebrations—backyard picnics with the kids, spontaneous cookie-baking mornings, or cheering everyone on at soccer games. She’s a rock-solid wife and stepmom whose kindness, creativity, and faith keep us all grounded. Her warm heart and unfailing support make every moment better. I’m so grateful she’ll be right there beside me on my wedding day. Oh, and she makes some amazing cakes - yuuuum!

Kelli & John

Kelli & John

Registry