Rehearsal Dinner/Welcome Party

Wedding Day

Winter

Happy Holidays!

Dear friends and family, 2022 has been an action-packed year! Stephen started a new position with JP Morgan Chase as a Vice President in Business Analytics. He has been loving his new "bank-hour" schedule, as it has provided him a much needed work/life balance! We kicked off the wedding season with our own celebration in May, and went on to attend eight other weddings through November. We were able to take our first international trip together in June - celebrating our honeymoon in Italy. After attending an incredible wedding in Lake Como, we went on to travel to Florence, Cinque Terre, Positano, Capri, and Rome. We made a final pit stop in Barcelona before heading home. While the year has been filled with wonderful experiences with family and friends, we are very excited to relax and slow down this holiday season. As we've taken a minute to reflect on the year, we are truly grateful for all of the love and support that we have and wish you and yours the happiest holiday season! All our love,The Martineks

Our Wedding

Stephen and Tori met and grew their relationship in Champaign, so it is only fitting that it became their wedding destination. They even have a picture of the first day that they met!

They had their first date at a boat formal in Minneapolis!

They dealt with the long distance of Champaign/Chicago/Arizona, have lived together in Chicago since 2017, and have been inseparable ever since. Covid only having a little bit to do with it :)

Our Story / Nuestra Historia

TownePlace Suites By Marriott Champaign Urbana/Campustown sets you right in the middle of campus, along the very popular Green Street. Right outside, you will find many local bars and restaurants, along with the newly built Target for your convenience across the street! Book by April 26th using the "WEBSITE" link at the bottom of this page to secure the group rate. The hotel reservation dates will pre-populate to Thursday through Sunday (3 nights). Guests can customize within these dates according to their schedule and still maintain the discount. Due to a lack of interest in transportation to/from The VenueCU a shuttle will not be provided. It is recommended that guests ask the hotel staff for a taxi service or request a rideshare car (Uber or Lyft). TownePlace Suites by Marriott Champaign/Urbana Campustown lo ubica justo en el medio del campus, a lo largo de la muy popular Green Street. Justo afuera, encontrarás muchos bares y restaurantes locales, junto con un Target recientemente construido para tu comodidad al otro lado de la calle. Reserve antes del 26 de abril utilizando el enlace "Sitio web" a continuación para asegurar la tarifa de grupo.

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Champaign Urbana/Campustown

Hotel Accommodation

Stephen and Tori recognize that their guests are coming in and out from a variety of different places at varying days/times. Listed below are some of their favorite places in Champaign to keep guests busy during downtime!

Dining Recommendations

Each one of Stephen and Tori's trips to Champaign centers around food. Somewhat surprising for the middle of Illinois, Champaign offers amazing and diverse cuisine including many of Stephen and Tori's favorites!

Stephen and Tori’s FAVORITE restaurant in Champaign and conveniently located just a few doors down from The Venue CU.Try the rib tips with the twice baked potato casserole on the side!

Black Dog Smoke & Ale House

Tori’s go-to spot for authentic Mexican tacos during her time at school. With homemade tortillas, these are the best tacos you can get in Champaign!

Maize at the Station

The best sushi in Champaign and $1 sushi on Sundays! The Flaming Phoenix is Tori and Stephen’s favorite roll. Be ready for some real flames!

Kofusion

One of the best pizzas you can get in Champaign. No matter your preference on crust, Papa Del's has it all. Since moving to their new location on Neil Street, Papa Del's offers much more seating and a more modern feel.

Papa Del's Pizza Factory

Conveniently located around the bars in downtown Champaign, this taco truck is the perfect end to a night (or wedding!) after a few drinks.

Fernando's Food Truck

Another late night favorite for Champaign students. Try the Hungry Chief with a side of the white cheddar tots and you won’t be disappointed!

Cracked: The Egg Came First

A must-stop spot every time Tori and Stephen visit Champaign. If you can handle your spice, order the spicy level 6 and you won't be disappointed!

Bangkok Thai Restaurant & Pho 911

Many of Tori’s weekend mornings were spent heading to Pandamonium’s doughnut truck. Now converted to a store-front!

Pandamonium Doughnuts

Coffee Spots

Need some caffeine in your life? Check out the coffee spots below!

Tori and Stephen’s favorite coffee spot in Champaign. One of the few cafes in town that serves Intelligencia coffee. Be like Barack Obama when he visited and grab the tiramisu!

Caffe Paradiso

Amazing affogato and located in the center of campus town.

BrewLab Coffee

Get your drink on!

You came to Champaign for a good time, did you not!? Check out Stephen and Tori's favorite drink spots below!

Best beer in downtown Champaign. Plenty of options if you’re willing to experiment!

The Blind Pig Brewery

Guido's Bar & Grill

Legend’s Sunrise, Snakebites and pickleback shots. Can’t go wrong catching a game here! Features some amazing Illini memorabilia that you can’t find anywhere else!

Legends

Stephen’s favorite pub in Campustown. Start fast with an irish car bomb or slow with a draft beer.

Murphy's Pub

Stephen’s favorite is the Hefeweizen. Take a growler home with you!

Riggs Beer Company

Sight Seeing

To be frank, most of Stephen and Tori's travel in Champaign revolves around food and drink, but there are plenty of picturesque places to visit as well!

The pride of Campustown! A must see before you leave. Look out for the fat, friendly squirrels.

Main Quad

A beautiful and tranquil destination if you’re feeling zen.

Japan House, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Krannert Art Museum provides a rich collection of fine art from across the globe, vibrant exhibitions and engaging programs!

Krannert Center for the Performing Arts

Things to Do / Atracciones

Bridesmaids

Keyuri and Tori met in high school during the production of “Little Shop of Horrors,” where the two were asked to scale the auditorium’s attic and drop vines down at the audience during the final scene. After starting their journey at U of I, and continuing their friendship post-college, it’s safe to say that Keyuri is one of Tori’s closest friends. Keyuri has seen it all, from late nights on Green Street, to over-the-top Bach Nights post-college. Keyuri and her sister Mayuri are without a doubt the most reliable friends, through thick and thin. 

Keyuri Parmar

Mayuri and Tori ran in the same circle of friends in high school, but connected more closely during a visit to U of I’s Unofficial (St. Patrick’s Day). Mayuri, Stephen, and Tori bonded when Stephen invited them to come along on the famous road trip to the Beta Chi Minnesota Boat Formal. She knows Tori and Stephen’s separate personalities, and knows them as a couple. Being a constant cheerleader for their relationship, it was no question that she would be the perfect person to unite them in (Martinek) matrimony!  

Mayuri Parmar

Adriana is Tori’s cousin from her mom’s side of the family. Growing up, Tori’s family would visit Adriana’s hometown of Olney, IL—where they would “ding-dong-ditch,” TP neighbor’s homes, and jump on Adriana’s trampoline. Now, Adriana attends the annual camping trip, which brings up too many memories to count. A couple of other notable memories include reciting Dumb & Dumber quotes, eating knock-off hostess snacks, and living with Tori’s family for a bit while attending NIU. 

Adriana Guzman

Stephen’s sister, Kristin, is living her best life in Columbus, Ohio with her dog (child) Caesar. The organized, dependable, go-getter, Stephen and Tori have much to learn from Kristin and appreciate all her wedding advice and knowledge. They’re looking forward to using her wine expertise for wherever they decide to go on their honeymoon!

Kristin Flock

Lucy has pretty much been a sister to Tori ever since the 4th grade, when they would anxiously wait for Mrs. White’s math class to start (Mrs. White was pretty mean). They have very many noticeable physical similarities, but are complete opposites when it comes to personalities. They have countless memories together—from late-night sleepovers and dance parties, to visiting each other in college. Lucy has been around for it all: good times, and bad—boy troubles, and wedding excitement!

Lucy Fuentes

Marissa is one of Tori’s best friends from grade and middle school. Always the funny one, Marissa is known for loving the TV series, LOST, and being waaay ahead of the times in knowing some of the best Alternative bands before they were popular. Even though Marissa moved away back in middle school, her and Tori have always seemed to stay in touch as if not much has changed. 

Marissa Masters

Vanessa is one of Tori’s closest cousins. Growing up living next to each other, their memories include “washing the car” in the pouring rain, listening to way too much Venga Boys and Hillary Duff, and pretty much seeing each other at every family party. Now, Vanessa teaches Tori the latest on the best makeup and comes out for a crazy Chicago visit every once in awhile. 

Vanessa Romero

Groomsmen / Ushers

Stephen and Brian grew close in Middle School through their love of sports. In those days, there wasn’t a week that went by that didn’t involve football, baseball, or basketball. Brian will do anything for his friends. He's extremely honest, dependable and an overall amazing person. He lives with his wife Kristyn and dog Amaretto in Bolingbrook, IL.

Brian Paradis

Stephen and Brad were friends during the “play tennis during the day and video games at night” high school days. They reconnected when Brad moved to Chicago and their relationship has never been stronger, getting each other through these crazy COVID times with their shared love of scotch and whiskey. Oh and it’s still tennis in the mornings and video games at night :)

Brad Stuba

Although David is Tori’s younger brother, he often calls himself her “Big-Little Brother,” as he is now a lot taller than her. David has also always been the little brother with big brother tendencies, lending a shoulder to cry on, or the one making her laugh with his larger than life expressions. Growing up, David would always be the one riding bikes or go karts, playing dolls, or watching movies with Tori. Tori and Stephen are excited to have him as a part of their big day!

David Snell

Beta Chi Brothers

Stephen met an amazing group of guys on his way to helping start a fraternity at the University of Illinois in 2011. Prior to COVID the group would travel to a different part of the world every year, from Spain to Italy (Tori is still jealous) to Croatia to Thailand. They’ve remained very close over the years.

Stephen and Hiren met their freshman year at U of I when they decided to join (and help start) a fraternity together. Hiren is the jokester of the college friend group, always spreading smiles and laughter wherever he goes. The only time I’ve seen Hiren frown is when he‘s talking about his fantasy football team or the Dallas Cowboys. Hiren lives in Chicago with his fiancée Kavitha, and is getting married a few months before Stephen!

Hiren Pithadia

The master planner, chef, and early adopter of the latest app, device or tool, Mayoor is always looking to learn and grow. Have a question? The knowledgeable Mayoor has an answer. Mayoor lives in New York with his wife Sajni, and had the first (of hopefully many!) marriages among the Beta Chi friend group!

Mayoor Rai

Living across the hall from each other freshman year, Stephen and Shankar shared in more than a few shenanigans trying to figure out what college life was all about. Shankar was the reason Stephen joined the fraternity and they’ve been close ever since.

Shankar Jonnagadla

Ashwin is a man of few words but one of the brightest people you will ever meet. As a perfect example, he received awards for his academic performance before the rest of the guys even realized he had won them! Ashwin currently lives in New York City.

Ashwin Parupalli

Bindu has a big heart. He’s always looking out for his friends, always offering a hand and is the first one to console when things turn sour. Stephen and Tori are looking forward to visiting Bindu in his apartment in Las Vegas at some point after the wedding festivities!

Bindu Paul

Rohan is another big reason that the Beta Chi brothers have stayed close for as long as they have. He’s usually the first to reach out to organize and coordinate with friends, and always knows the perfect place to go. Rohan recently switched careers to become an investment banker in NYC!

Rohan Shah

Taking the same major, Samir and Stephen grew very close toward the end of their college and start of their professional careers. Samir introduced Stephen to a small Forensic Technology group at EY that he interned at, and Stephen’s been working there for the past 6 years! Samir on the other hand, moved onto bigger and better things including Uber and Bird and has been developing his own online game in his spare time.

Samir Lakhani

Wedding Party / Damas y Chambelanes

Photos

Registry / Registro

Can I bring a guest? / ¿Puedo llevar un invitado?

The RSVP system on our website will indicate how many people/who is invited to our events. Please respect our wishes by not inviting guests who are not listed on your RSVP. If you feel that we have made an error, please contact us directly to resolve! El sistema RSVP en nuestro sitio web indicará cuántas personas o quiénes estan invitados a nuestro evento. Por favor, respete nuestros deseos al no invitar a personas que no figuran en su RSVP. Si cree que hemos cometido un error, contáctenos directamente para resolverlo.&nbsp;

Are Children Invited? /  ¿Están invitados los niños?

We love your kids --we really do! But we want our wedding to be an opportunity for adults to let loose and have a relaxing evening! We hope that you are able to make accommodations and enjoy the night off! Amamos a sus hijos, ¡realmente lo hacemos! Pero queremos que nuestra boda sea una oportunidad para que los adultos se relajen y tengan una velada relajante. Esperamos que pueda hacer arreglos para dejar a sus hijos en casa y disfrutar de la noche libre.

Will the wedding be indoors or outdoors? / ¿La boda será en el interior o al aire libre?

The ceremony and reception will be held indoors. However, guests will have the opportunity to use The Venue CU's back patio outside during the cocktail hour. La ceremonia y la recepción se llevarán a cabo en el interior. Sin embargo, los invitados tendrán la oportunidad de usar el patio trasero de The Venue CU al aire libre durante la hora del cóctel.

What is the dress code? / ¿Cuál es el código de vestimenta?

We request that guests dress in semi-formal attire! Solicitamos que los invitados se vistan con atuendo semiformal.

Is there parking at the venue? / ¿Hay estacionamiento en el lugar?

Yes! The Venue CU provides free parking in their private lot behind the building. Downtown Champaign also offers many lots with free parking on the weekends. ¡Sí!&nbsp;The Venue CU ofrece estacionamiento gratuito en su lote privado detrás del edificio.&nbsp;El centro de Champaign también ofrece muchos lotes con estacionamiento gratuito los fines de semana.

Will transportation be provided? / ¿Se proporcionará transporte?

The ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception will all be held at The Venue CU. Unfortunately, Towneplace Suites does not provide a shuttle. They are located a short drive (4 mins) from our venue, so we strongly encourage calling an Uber/Lyft, or walking (20 mins) in order to enjoy our open bar during the cocktail hour and reception! La ceremonia, la hora del cóctel y la recepción se llevarán a cabo en The Venue CU. Lamentablemente TownePlace Suites no ofrecen servicio de traslado. Están ubicados a poca distancia en automóvil (4 minutos) de nuestro lugar, por lo que recomendamos llamar un Uber/Lyft o caminar (20 minutos) para disfrutar de nuestra barra libre durante la hora del cóctel y la recepción.

FAQ's / Preguntas

While we understand our guests have various beliefs about COVID-19, the reality is that it is still prevalent and not to be ignored. Continuing to host our wedding during this time poses a responsibility on the two of us and because of this, we will be asking everyone to do their part in protecting themselves as well as others. Out of an abundance of caution and care for all, we highly recommend those planning to attend to take a COVID-19 test beforehand, regardless of vaccination status.&nbsp;Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order four free at-home COVID-19 tests at https://www.covidtests.gov/. We also encourage the use of masks for those of high risk, or those who would simply feel safer doing so. We ask you to keep your loved ones (those attending and those you will see after the wedding) in mind. We will be setting the same examples by being vaccinated, tested, and wearing masks when we feel necessary during our event. Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation - we cannot wait to finally celebrate our special day with you! Love,Stephen &amp; Tori

Si bien entendemos que nuestros huéspedes tienen varias creencias sobre el COVID-19, la realidad es que aún prevalece y no debe ser ignorado. Continuar organizando nuestra boda durante este tiempo representa una responsabilidad para nosotros dos y, por eso, les pediremos a todos que hagan su parte para protegerse a sí mismos y a los demás. Por precaución y cuidado para todos, recomendamos encarecidamente a quienes planean asistir que se hagan una prueba de COVID-19 de antemano, independientemente del estado de vacunación. Cada hogar en los EE. UU. es elegible para solicitar 4 pruebas de COVID-19 gratuitas en el hogar en https://www.covidtests.gov/. Alentamos el uso de máscaras para aquellos de mayor riesgo o aquellos que simplemente se sentirían más seguros al hacerlo. Le pedimos que tenga en cuenta a sus seres queridos (los que asistirán y los que verá después de la boda). Daremos los mismos ejemplos al ser vacunados, examinados, y usando máscaras cuando lo consideremos necesario durante nuestro evento. Gracias de antemano por su comprensión y cooperación. No Podemos esperar para finalmente celebrar nuestro día especial con todos ustedes! Con Amor,Stephen y Tori

COVID-19 Information

Thank you so much for supporting us and visiting our website! Our RSVP deadline has passed. Unfortunately, we will be unable to accommodate those who had not formally submitted an RSVP through our website before the deadline. We appreciate your understanding. If you have any questions, concerns, or changes to your existing RSVP, please reach out to us directly. With Love,Tori &amp; Stephen

RSVPs

Photo Gallery

If you have any photos of/with us to share from these events, please text them to one of to us or email us at svmartinek22@gmail.com!

Photos by <a href="https://ebbylphotography.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ebby L Photography</a>.

Honeymoon

Holiday Session 2022