Rehearsal Dinner

Untitled Supper Club

Welcome Drinks

St Alphonsus Church

Ceremony

Field Museum

Reception

Howl At The Moon

After Party

Our Wedding

Our story didn’t begin with a typical college romance. Though we both attended undergrad in St. Louis and frequented many of the same local hangouts, fate kept us just out of each other’s orbit. It wasn’t until years later, through the unpredictability of the National Residency Matching Program, that our paths finally crossed. The stars aligned, and we both matched for general surgery residency at UIC in Chicago. We met for the first time at the new intern meet-and-greet. As everyone mingled and made small talk, Julia unintentionally stole the show by accidentally buying an entire bucket of beers instead of just one. That little mishap turned into the perfect icebreaker, and as we bonded over those drinks, we discovered that we’d be starting the same rotation in just a few days. Over time, we quickly became good friends and started spending more time together—so much time that our friends began to notice (and ask questions). At the time, we both insisted we were just friends—Julia even helped John update his Hinge account—but things were destined to take a turn. The turning point came when we went to see Elton John on his farewell tour. What was supposed to be a group outing with mutual friends turned into an impromptu solo adventure when everyone else backed out. That night, we danced, sang, and had so much fun that we ended up continuing the evening at a Rod Tuffcurls &amp; The Bench Press show, a Chicago-based cover band we’ve since made a tradition of dragging friends to see with us. By the end of that night, it was undeniable—we were more than just friends. A few weeks later, we officially started dating. Since then, life together has been an adventure. We’ve seen Elton John twice more on his farewell tour and danced through countless Chicago summer street festivals. We’ve explored several national parks, and last August, during a trip to Banff in Canada, we got engaged! Next up on our list: a trip to China and Japan. It’s incredible to think that the randomness of the residency match led us to find each other. We’re so excited for this next chapter filled with love, adventure, and, of course, more Rod Tuffcurls concerts. We can’t wait to celebrate with you all this November!

Our Story

Photos

Bridesmaids

Maansi Vatsan

Nicole Davie

Hannah Bellau

Lauren Blackburn

Lindsie Green

Megan Luginsland

Priya Mohan

Ushasi Naha

Emma Singer

Hannah Wavering-Walters

Groomsmen

Daniel Bellau

Nick Arcomano

Rob Cowdrey

Andrew Dare

Austin Davis

Brian Everhart

Dan Killilea

Matt Phillips

Nick Roberts

Colin Ross

Wedding Party

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT AT UNTITLED ON FRIDAY NIGHT?

We'd love to have you join us for Welcome Drinks at Untitled!111 West Kinzie StreetChicago, IL 60654 Dessert and Late Night Bites will be served.You will need to RSVP for this event.

Where Will The Ceremony Be Held?

St. Alphonsus Church1429 West Wellington AvenueChicago, IL 60657

What Time Is The Ceremony?

The Ceremony will begin promptly at 3:00 PM.

Where Is The Reception Going To Be Held?

The Field Museum1400 South Lake Shore DriveChicago, IL 60605* Cocktail Hour starts at 6 PM * During cocktail hour, feel free to explore the museum! Docents will be around if you have any questions.

Will Transportation Be Provided On The Wedding Day?

Yes, Shuttles will be provided for Guests on the Wedding Day.PLEASE BE ON TIME, AS THE BUSES WILL BE LEAVING AT THE DESIGNATED TIMES. Buses will be staged at The LaSalle Hotel and Renaissance Downtown Chicago Hotel, boarding at 2 PM and promptly leaving for St. Alphonsus at 2:15 PM. The buses will be returning to the 2 Hotels after the Ceremony, to allow Guests to freshen up. We'll be boarding again at 5:30 PM for the Reception and leaving promptly for The Field Museum at 5:45 PM. *Evening shuttles will be provided beginning at 10 PM, taking Guests back to The LaSalle and Renaissance Hotels*

If I Am Driving, Where Can I Park?

There is free street parking at the Church. There will be limited handicap accessible parking at the Museum.

What Attire Is Required?

Black Tie Requested.

What Airport Should I Fly Into?

Both Chicago O'Hare and Midway provide easy access to Downtown Chicago.

Can I Bring My Kids?

To give all our guests the opportunity to celebrate without having to worry about their little ones, we politely request no children during our wedding weekend.

Any Favorite Restaurants or Things To Do While Visiting Chicago?

Please see our "Things To Do In Chicago" page!

Q + A

If either of the room blocks below appear to be full, or if you'd like to extend your stay, please contact our Wedding Planner to assist: lindsay@livenitup.com.

Shuttles will be provided.PLEASE BE ON TIME, AS THE BUSES WILL BE LEAVING AT THE DESIGNATED TIMES. Buses will be staged at The LaSalle Hotel and Renaissance Downtown Chicago Hotel, boarding at 2 PM and promptly leaving for St. Alphonsus at 2:15 PM. The buses will be returning to the two Hotels after the Ceremony, to allow Guests to freshen up. We'll be boarding again at 5:30 PM for the Reception and leaving promptly for The Field Museum at 5:45 PM. *Evening shuttles will be provided beginning at 10 PM, taking Guests back to The LaSalle and Renaissance Hotels*

TRANSPORTATION FOR THE WEDDING DAY

Must book by Friday, October 10 to secure the special group rate. King: $227/night + tax + feesDouble Queen: $277/night + tax + fees Click the link below to book:

The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection

Must book by Thursday, October 2 to secure the special group rate. King: $220/night + $25 destination fee + taxDouble Queen: $230/night + $25 destination fee + tax Click the link below to book:

Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel

Travel

MUSEUMS

Chicago has no shortage of Museums. If you plan on going to more than one Tour or Museum buy a City Pass! <a href="https://www.citypass.com/chicago" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.citypass.com/chicago</a> The Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium are located&nbsp;in the Near South Side's Museum Campus. Museum of Science and Industry, Oriental Institute, Smart Museum of Art, and DuSable Museum are located in Hyde Park. Museum of Contemporary Art:&nbsp;<a href="https://mcachicago.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://mcachicago.org/</a>Art Institute of Chicago: <a href="https://www.artic.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.artic.edu/</a>

SHOPPING

Magnificent Mile A.K.A The Mag MileThe Mag Mile is an upscale section of Chicago's Michigan Avenue, running from the Chicago River to Oak Street in the Near North Side. <a href="https://www.themagnificentmile.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.themagnificentmile.com/</a> The Magnificent Mile is also notable for its three urban shopping centers: Water Tower Place, The Shops at North Bridge, and 900 North Michigan Shops. Each spans multiple floors and city blocks and offers various tenants: mall mainstays and more upscale apparel shops, restaurants, and unique attractions, such as museums. In its book The 10 Best of Everything: An Ultimate Guide for Travelers, National Geographic named The Magnificent Mile along with Rodeo Drive and Fifth Avenue as one of the 10 best shopping avenues in the world. In 2011, rent on The Magnificent Mile is the third most expensive in the country, behind Fifth Avenue in New York and Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Oak Street, Walton, and Rush Streets Oak Street is a short street in Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood, adjacent to North Michigan Avenue houses the highest concentration of luxury brands, "Oak Street" also designates the surrounding area including Rush Street and Walton Street as Chicago's upscale retail district. <a href="https://oakstreetchicago.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://oakstreetchicago.com/</a>

SIGHTSEEING

<a href="https://www.architecture.org/tours/detail/chicago-architecture-foundation-center-river-cruise-aboard-chicago-s-first-lady/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Architecture Boat Tour on the Chicago River</a> Fun Fact: Chicago reversed the flow of the river. Find out how and why on this tour. #1 boat tour in North America according to USA Today Readers' Choice 2021 Awards! For more than 25 years, the Chicago Architecture Center's expertly trained docent volunteers have led the river cruise, sharing fascinating stories behind more than 50 buildings along the Chicago River. Hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world's largest cities in less than 100 years. In just 90 minutes, you'll get the best overview of Chicago’s architecture and its history. Navy Pier - Ferris Wheel Completed in 1916, Navy Pier is undeniably one of Chicago’s top attractions. Stretching into Lake Michigan, this year-round destination truly comes to life in the summer, with fireworks displays, live music, theatre, and cruises setting sail daily. Come fall and winter, Navy Pier is still hopping, with special events, sights, and activities that span all ages and interests. There are many outdoor attractions at the Navy Pier Park, such as The Centennial Wheel, Pepsi Wave Swinger, Drop Tower, Light Tower Ride, Teacups and the Carousel. <a href="https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/tours-and-attractions/navy-pier/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/tours-and-attractions/navy-pier/</a> Millennium Park – Home of “The Bean” Millennium Park is more than an attraction — it’s an expression of the Chicago experience. The lakefront campus, located in the heart of downtown Chicago, is home to the iconic Cloud Gate statue (aka “The Bean”), interactive fountains, tranquil gardens, free events, public art, skating rinks, rock climbing, and plenty of green space. Come explore everything Millennium Park has to offer. Art on the MART Smack dab in the center of Chicago's coveted River North neighborhood is the world's largest permanent digital art projection. Onlookers gather nightly to observe a unique display of visual effects taking shape upon the 2.5-acre riverfront facade of theMART building. This free, self-guided public art experience is certainly a spectacle amidst the already impressive Chicago cityscape. If you're compelled by what you see, the art on theMART website offers more information on the artists involved. Willis Tower A.K.A. the Sears Tower – The Ledge Willis Tower is the heart of downtown financial Chicago. The 110-story building is one of the tallest buildings in the world and the second tallest building in North America. History and Fun facts: <a href="https://www.willistower.com/history-and-facts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.willistower.com/history-and-facts</a> Skydeck &amp; The Ledge are located on the 103rd floor with clear observation boxes &amp; views extending to four states.<a href="https://theskydeck.com/tickets-shop/general-pricing/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://theskydeck.com/tickets-shop/general-pricing/</a> Pay extra for VIP Expedited Entry! 875 North Michigan Avenue A.K.A. the John Hancock – The Tilt John Hancock is a 100-story, skyscraper located on the Magnificent Mile.The observatory (360 Chicago), which competes with the Willis Tower's Skydeck, has a 360° view of the city, up to four states, and over 80 miles. 360 Chicago is home to TILT, a moving platform that leans visitors over the edge of the skyscraper to a 30-degree angle, a full bar with local selections, Chicago's only open-air SkyWalk, and features free interactive high-definition touch screens in six languages. John Hancock also has a 95th floor restaurant, diners can look out at Chicago and Lake Michigan. <a href="https://360chicago.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://360chicago.com/</a> Note the Tilt Experience is an additional ticket on top of the Skydeck. Lincoln Park &amp; Lincoln Park Zoo Lincoln Park is a designated community area on the North Side of Chicago, Illinois. Lying to the west of Lincoln Park, Chicago's largest park, bigger than Central Park in NYC.Top 5 Things to do in the park: The Lincoln Park Boardwalk, The Lincoln Park Zoo, The Lincoln Park Conservatory, The Education Pavilion, and The Caldwell Lily Pond. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbH0bLwQnUA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbH0bLwQnUA</a> Lincoln Park Zoo aka Lincoln Park Zoological Gardens is a 35-acre zoo in Lincoln Park, Chicago, Illinois. The Zoo was founded in 1868, making it the fourth oldest zoo in North America. It is also one of a few free admission zoos in the United States. <a href="https://www.lpzoo.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.lpzoo.org/</a>

Things to Do In Chicago

Registry

We’re so excited to celebrate our big day with you—your presence truly means the world to us! Your love and laughter are the greatest blessings we could ask for. However, if you'd like to mark the occasion with a gift, we’ve set up a registry for our honeymoon and a few things to help us kickstart our life together. To contribute, please visit:<a href="https://withjoy.com/john-and-julia-2025/registry" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://withjoy.com/john-and-julia-2025/registry</a> Thank you for your love and support—we can't wait to enter this new chapter and make amazing memories with you! With love, Julia &amp; John

Julia & John

Julia & John

Photos