Wedding Day

Abbington Distinctive Banquets

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

From the moment Margaret and Brian met in AA, neither could have predicted the depth of their friendship. After many nights of meetings, large group outings became a regular occurrence as the world began to open up after the COVID lockdowns. For many individuals, especially those in recovery seeking connection, these gatherings were the highlight of their weeks. Their initial bond blossomed from a shared understanding of their past struggles and a mutual commitment to a new way of living. As they navigated the ups and downs of sobriety together, they built a foundation of trust and safety, becoming each other's best friends. People in AA often express their feelings through hugs, but Margaret was dismayed by this—until Brian offered the hug, of course! After one Sunday night meeting, everyone went out for ice cream, and Margaret panicked, talking about astrology and convincing Brian to create a Co-Star account. This moment is an essential part of their story because they could not be more opposite, with Brian being a Virgo and Margaret a Pisces. With his radiant optimism, Brian was the sun, drawing Margaret out of the shadows. Margaret was the moon, a calming and reflective presence, providing a sense of peace and stillness that Brian had never known. Margaret mentioned that she would be going to Summer House in Lincoln Park with her friend Jillian. As they got closer to picking up Jillian, Brian realized they were heading to a restaurant, not to Jillian's actual summer house by the lake—something that always makes them laugh. After that evening, Margaret and Brian spent as much time together as possible, quickly falling in love. Brian loves going to movies, Bulls games, and concerts, while Margaret prefers cooking at home, binge-watching shows, and having late-night fires. One loved sushi, and the other preferred anything else, but ultimately, as long as they were together, they enjoyed discovering new things about each other. What they found in each other was more than just a partnership; it became a place of belonging and peace. The moment Brian knew Margaret was the one was during his most difficult time: his mother's passing. In his grief and depression, Margaret didn't just offer comfort; she became a steadfast support for him and his family. Her caring presence during that painfully honest time showed Brian her true character and strength. In that moment of vulnerability, he saw Margaret as his home—the one he wanted to share his life with, through all of life's storms and joys. Margaret never pinpointed a single moment when she knew Brian was her person; instead, it was a feeling that grew with every step she took and every challenge she faced. He was always there, a steady presence that made even the most complex paths manageable. He became her calm amid chaos, knowing when to hold her hand and when to offer a genuine laugh to mend a broken day. With Brian, she didn't just feel seen—she felt understood, and in that understanding, she finally found her place in the world. Margaret and Brian are overjoyed to begin their lives together and can't wait to celebrate their marriage with you!

Our Story

Photos

Noreen Lydon

Kevin Santiago

Nicole Kolozsi

Mitch dela Merced

Brianna Santiago

Tremelle Scott

Rose Lydon

Jonathan Matsuda

Mary Lydon

Wedding Party

Q + A

Our room block has a limited number of rooms, but if it's fully booked, don't worry — we can arrange for more rooms! Just get in touch with us, and we'll be happy to help you! Last Day to Book :&nbsp;Tuesday, August 18, 2026

The Westin Chicago Lombard

Travel

Yorktown Center

Oakbrook Center

The Morton Arboretum

AMC Yorktown 18

Topgolf Naperville

Main Event Warrenville

Dave & Buster's Lombard

Things to Do

Registry

Ultimate Formal Attire Shopping Guide

25 Hand-Picked Formal Guest Dresses

Tux vs. Suit: What's the Difference?

We kindly invite all our guests to wear formal attire, such as dark suits and ties or elegant, below-the-knee dresses in beautiful fall colors. Thank you so much for helping us create a warm, sophisticated, and inviting atmosphere!

Dress Code

Margaret and Brian

Margaret and Brian

Dress Code

FORMAL

Ideas & Advice