Spoke Apartments

Rehearsal Dinner / Welcome Party

Wedding Day

St. Pauls United Church of Christ

Ceremony

The Joinery

Reception

Florida Bridal Shower

Illinois Bridal Shower

Our Wedding

On our third date in Celebration, FL, we got onto the topic of SNL, sharing some of our favorite sketches and cast members, past and present. Maggie expressed her admiration for Ego Nwodim, Bowen Yang, and Andy Sandberg while sharing a few of her favorite sketches from recent years. Chris talked about his love for what he called “vintage” SNL—the 90s cast featuring Farley, Sandler, Spade, and Ferrell that he grew up with. Little did we know this would become something we’d come to love so deeply together. SNL quickly became part of our Sunday morning routine as we continued dating. We watched episodes before Chris settled in for his standing appointment with 7 hours of commercial-free football in NFL RedZone. SNL became more than just a show for us to watch together; it became a shared passion, something we referenced and joked about throughout the week. We would rewatch sketches until we could quote them from memory, forming some of our first inside jokes—which turned into moments we’d look forward to sharing with friends and family. The front of our Save the Date is an homage to SNL’s weekly social media announcements, where they reveal the upcoming host and musical guest. For years, these posts have highlighted a rotating lineup of celebrities, bands, artists, politicians, and more. We couldn't imagine a more fitting style when thinking about how we wanted to announce our wedding! The back of our Save the Date features a custom cue card made by the one and only Wally Feresten. If the name doesn’t ring a bell, you’ve undoubtedly seen his work. Chris "Wally" Feresten is the legendary cue card handler and supervisor on Saturday Night Live. In addition to his work on SNL, he also does cue cards for Late Night with Seth Meyers (one of Chris’s favorite late-night shows). We reached out to Wally to create a personalized cue card for us, and we were thrilled with his enthusiasm in making this happen. While chatting, we asked if he knew who wrote the iconic note cards announcing the special guests. Wally told us he could “ask around Lorne’s office,” (I KNOW, RIGHT?!) and he delivered not only a one-of-a-kind cue card for us but also custom announcements for our wedding. We are so excited about the care and intentionality we’ve put into these Save the Dates and hope they serve as a reminder to you and all our guests: we are here to celebrate our love for each other, our love for family and friends, and our love for having a little fun without taking things too seriously. We can’t wait to celebrate with you, and we look forward to seeing you...

LIVE FROM CHICAGO on SATURDAY NIGHT!

If you’d like to learn more about Wally’s cue cards or their role on SNL, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3djg59JUrmc" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">please check out this video</a>! If you’re interested in having your own cue card made, <a href="https://cuecardsbywally.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">feel free to visit him here.</a>

Oh yeah.... And those Jeopardy Stamps? Those are just for fun! "I'll have 'Why (k)Not?!' for $100, Alex."

Our Save The Dates

Our Favorite Restaurants

<a href="https://www.loumitchells.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lou Mitchell’s</a>: 100+ year old diner, where Chris grew up going with his family. This is the first place Chris and Maggie became regulars after moving to Chicago! <a href="https://www.kasamachicago.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kasama</a>: Critically acclaimed Filipino spot that serves incredible pastries. We recommend getting there before open to get in line for breakfast. If you get lucky, order online, exactly at 9:00am, expect a wait. <a href="https://www.jjthaistreetfood.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">JJ’s Street Thai</a>: This West Town Spot features our favorite Thai food in the city! Don't miss&nbsp;their Chicken Satay. <a href="https://chicago.eater.com/2023/3/17/23643899/mr-beef-chicago-italian-beef-history-carl-bonavolanto" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mr Beef</a>: Classic Italian Beef spot and filming location for The Bear! Bring cash and practice your order. <a href="https://www.virtuerestaurant.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Virtue</a>: Southern American restaurant in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood. While every dish is incredible, don't miss dessert. <a href="https://smallcheval.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Small Cheval</a>: Multi-location burger joint, and spin-off of critically acclaimed Au Cheval. A signature double cheeseburger with their golden fries hits every time. <a href="https://chefsspecialbar.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chef's Special</a>: Cocktail bar featuring fun takes on Chinese-American cuisine. Our favorite dishes here include the crab rangoon, the smashed cucumbers, and the rolled noodles. <a href="https://www.armitagealehouse.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Armitage Alehouse</a>: English pub with 1920's decor, featuring classic dishes like pot pies, fish &amp; chips, and tikka masala. <a href="https://www.mindysbakery.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mindy's Bakery</a>: European-inspired bakery, famous for its rich hot chocolate. Check the website to learn about what comes out of the oven when! <a href="https://www.michaelspizzachicago.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Michael's Pizza</a>: Discover the pizza that Chicagoans actually eat: tavern-style! This pizza is made with a crispy-crackery crust, and pairs best with their fennel forward sausage, onions, and green peppers.

Things to Do in the City

<a href="https://www.wendellaboats.com/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiA57G5BhDUARIsACgCYnwITb9EUS94pV1t0gs3KX6GXiXs8Qbo8k3nL2YwxvvmuuPZM9RB3ukaAlvTEALw_wcB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Architecture Tour:</a> The city's skyscrapers are exceptionally beautiful by boat. Our favorite is Wendella's 90 Minute Boat Tour. Bundle up - because the Windy City is chilly on the water! <a href="https://www.artic.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Art Institute of Chicago</a>: This museum is located on the Magnificent Mile, with art from a variety of time periods. One of the most famous pieces is Sunday in the Park with George. Chris and Maggie love the exhibits in the basement, like the miniatures! <a href="https://www.broadwayinchicago.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Live Music &amp; Theater</a>: Visit one of the city's venues, like the iconic <a href="https://www.msg.com/the-chicago-theatre/calendar?venues=KovZpZA6AJ6A" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chicago Theatre</a>, <a href="https://www.auditoriumtheatre.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Auditorium Theatre</a>, or the <a href="https://www.broadwayinchicago.com/chicago-theater-guide/james-nederlander-theatre-chicago/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nederlander Theatre</a>. <a href="https://gangnammarketusa.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gangnam Market</a>: Asian food hall &amp; specialty market located underneath Chris and Maggie's apartment. <a href="https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/museum-campus-working-group/home/the-museum-campus.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Museum Campus</a>: This is home to several amazing Chicago icons, like the <a href="https://www.fieldmuseum.org/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiA57G5BhDUARIsACgCYnxkrtR4taIgBiCSv8jXUFP1m52lQR_X2GGXc6s4RSAzWZnTMqw1a1kaApo6EALw_wcB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Field Museum</a>, the <a href="https://www.adlerplanetarium.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alder Planetarium</a>, and The <a href="https://www.sheddaquarium.org/?gad_source=1&amp;dclid=CjgKEAiA57G5BhC63qCoweCQux4SJADEqUGZI087_EWWRRfP3opUFDaD_AVhgIpkv_sXCzQvVIek7PD_BwE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shedd Aquarium. </a>

Things to Do

Our Story

I knew there was something incredibly special about Maggie from the moment I first saw her. I knew how exceptional she was since we sat at HandleBar in Mount Dora, FL on our first date. Sunlight was streaming through the windows, and I had this undeniable feeling deep inside me that the person sitting across from me would completely and radically change my life. Since that day, I have never doubted that feeling. It was just a matter of time before I could make it official and ask Maggie to be my wife. That was in 2021, and after moving to Chicago together in February of 2024, I formally started the proposal process by asking for Maggie's mom's blessing on her first visit to the city. Her "yes" meant so much to me, and from there, I knew that we could continue the process by looking at rings together in late May. It gave us the chance to figure out what Maggie liked and didn’t like. Working with an amazing jeweler based in <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brynmawrjewelry/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Andersonville</a>, I was able to create a custom ring for Maggie, combining her favorite design features and my dream for her ring. After a few weeks, the ring was ready, and when I picked it up, I was absolutely blown away. The jeweler had done an incredible job—it was truly the ring of Maggie’s dreams. Next on my agenda was figuring out how to ask her to marry me. After talking with her sister and Person of Honor, Ellie, I realized a trip to Washington, D.C.—a city that holds so much significance for both of us—would be the perfect opportunity. Maggie had already planned a solo trip to visit Ellie in late June, so the timing worked out perfectly. I coordinated with Ellie on where I would stay, when I would fly in, and how I would propose. The toughest part for me was keeping it a surprise, especially since I’m not the best at lying (haha). With flights booked, the ring ready, and a plan coming together, I had to focus on the details of the proposal. Ellie and I came up with a cover story: she would invite Maggie to a casual picnic in front of the Washington Monument on the National Mall. They planned to attend a Pride event in Arlington, Virginia, afterward, but the picnic was a nice way to spend some time outdoors and relax before the crowds. Maggie was excited about the idea, as it would give her a chance to meet more of Ellie’s friends. Little did she know, Ellie was fully committed to helping me pull off the surprise. She even changed my name and contact info in her phone to that of one of her friends, so when I texted her about the details, Maggie wouldn’t suspect a thing. The morning of the proposal, I picked up some of our favorite snacks and a special picnic blanket and brought my iPad to the National Mall. I set up the iPad with a video—a highlight reel of moments from the past three years with Maggie. It included clips from the one-second videos I’ve taken over the years, extended to draw out all the small but meaningful moments that have made our relationship what it is.Finally, Maggie and Ellie arrived at the National Mall via bus, which I took as a great sign. If Maggie had suspected anything, she probably wouldn’t have traveled to her own engagement via public transit! (We love public transportation.) The surprise was ready to go! (Also, pay no attention to me creeping on the opposite sides of the monument, looking VERY shady… When Maggie reached the iPad, she hit play and watched the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=or4U9u0178M" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">3 ½-minute video</a>. At the very end, I was standing behind her with the ring, getting down on one knee, and asking if she would spend the rest of her life with me. Of course, she said yes! In that moment, I was the happiest person in the entire world, and I know she would say the same! We spent the rest of the day celebrating! Once we were completely giddy with excitement, we called our friends and family to share the news. Maggie got a manicure, we took photos on the National Mall, and we had appetizers and dinner at two incredible restaurants, It was a perfect day and the start of an incredible chapter in our lives. While we knew that planning a wedding would be an adventure of its own, we made it a priority to savor this special moment and simply enjoy being together.

The Proposal

Engagement Photos

Jeff Roehl is the oldest brother of the groom. Growing up, Chris always looked up to Jeff (not only because at 12 years older he was significantly taller than his baby brother). Even after Chris finished growing to 6'3" and could (relatively) see eye to eye, he continues to look up to Jeff in every way that matters. Chris had the honor of being Jeff's best man for his first wedding and was later privileged to officiate the wedding of Jeff and his bride, Gina, in 2021. Chris admires his brother’s kindness, compassion, humor, and unwavering willingness to be there for anyone in need.

Jeff Roehl

Ellie Leach is Maggie’s younger sister. As such, Ellie has always been cooler than Maggie, introducing her to the latest and greatest music and cultural references, Since their pre-teen days, Ellie and Maggie have enjoyed time together in the kitchen, cooking for weeknight dinners, holidays, and Leach family parties. Maggie admires Ellie’s bravery, authenticity to herself, gastronomic prowess, creativity, and humor. Ellie played an absolutely pivotal role in Chris and Maggie’s engagement surprise, they are so excited to celebrate the wedding with Ellie!

Ellie Leach

Tyler Roehl is Chris’s older brother, and while Chris may now be taller, he still looks up to Tyler in many of the same ways he looks up to Jeff. Chris had the honor of serving as Tyler’s best man in 2023 and is continually amazed by how Tyler demonstrates love, especially in the way he loves his bride, Mary Kate, so deeply and intentionally. Chris and Tyler share a lifelong bond, shaped by playing games together, watching their favorite shows, and honing their amateur chiropractic skills on each other in exchange for TV remote privileges. Chris is thrilled to have Tyler stand with him and can’t imagine anyone better to be by his side on such a special day.

Tyler Roehl

Melanie Stanko is the sister of the groom and the future sister-in-law of the bride. Growing up with Melanie as his older sister, Chris would often joke that they were twins, just 10 years apart. Not only do they share some similar features (one of the main reasons Chris grew his beard), but they also share a deep love of family, music, theater, games, and Disney.

Over the years, Maggie has come to love Melanie as family. Whether it’s hanging out at family dinners, playing games, or always being the first to step up when Chris and Maggie need help (like moving in February!), Melanie is a model of selflessness, kindness, and love. Both Chris and Maggie aspire to emulate these qualities in their own marriage.

Melanie Stanko

Nicky Todd Smit is one of the groom’s oldest friends. The two first met in the late ’90s at a community soccer club, during a time when both of their professional soccer careers seemed inevitable, until their mutual disdain for running drills (led by none other than Coach Smit, Nicky’s dad) got in the way. Reconnecting in junior high, Chris and Nicky navigated the ups and downs of their moody teenage years together, ultimately emerging as the best of friends, a bond that has only grown stronger over the years. A selfless, kind, and genuinely beautiful soul, Nicky is someone Chris is deeply grateful to have by his side for this special occasion.

Nicky Smit

Kiara Yee is Maggie’s first-ever friend. Kiara and Maggie have always enjoyed telling people they’ve been friends since before birth, as their moms were friends while pregnant.  Kiara often abbreviates her name to Ki or Kiki (yes, coined by Maggie). Maggie and Kiara's countless sleepovers and beach days created many sweet memories and inside jokes. In adulthood, Kiara’s career path led her towards the great outdoors, a direction that Maggie doesn’t fully understand, but will always celebrate. Maggie loves Kiara’s fierce loyalty, drive for excellence, care for others, and willingness to laugh. Maggie is thrilled to share this day with her very first friend. 

Kiara Yee

Ryan Mortenson is a college friend of the groom, whose friendship was sparked by chance when Chris asks to sit next to Ryan during a physics class on the second day of freshman year. Despite the little voice in Ryan’s head screaming, “No, no, no—please don’t ask to sit next to me!” he said yes—and the rest is history! Since college, Chris and Ryan have remained close friends, embarking on adventures across North America to watch the Blackhawks play (and often lose) in various NHL cities. Chris had the honor of being a groomsman in Ryan’s 2021 wedding and continues to be inspired by Ryan’s unwavering love and support for his wife, daughter, friends, and family.

Ryan Mortenson

Krista Rogers is Maggie’s best friend from college, and one third of the “Terrific Trio” (more on this later). In college, Krista and Maggie shared a home on Buttercup Drive and both worked running events for the Honors Program, where they had way too much fun organizing gatherings for the resident nerds. Krista has been a source of consistent encouragement, helping Maggie move from home to home multiple times, being a shoulder to cry on, and someone to call when there is good news. Maggie adores Krista’s boundless optimism, love for making magic, and deeply-rooted joy. It is a gift to share this day with Krista!

Krista Rogers

Patrick Leemann is one of Chris’s oldest friends from Disney. Having met while working at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, they really started to bond when Pat returned to Disney for a professional internship and needed a place to stay. As roommates, they quickly realized how much they had in common and became the best of friends.

One of the highlights for the two was their Facebook Live show, Roommate Debate, during the 2020 pandemic. Playfully arguing with each other, drinking, and engaging with their amazing audience every other night about silly topics created a connection between them that will always be with them.

Though no longer roommates, Chris and Pat remain great friends. Chris loves Pat’s incredible capacity for empathy, his thoughtful intentionality, and his willingness to create connections with everyone he meets.

Patrick Leemann

Maddie Handler is Maggie’s best friend from college, and one third of the “Terrific Trio,” along with Krista Rogers. Maddie and Maggie met through the Southeastern University Honors Program, where their adjacent majors meant that they shared many classes together. Maddie’s outgoing nature and willingness to study created fast friends. As college continued, Krista, Maddie, and Maggie began the Terrific Trio, a friendship that evolved into a very active group text and yearly Christmas reunions. These reunions are full of annual traditions, like a visit to the Eternal Flame and a trip to Born and Bread. When the Trio is together, laugher is contagious and puns are abundant. Maggie values Maddie’s unabashed sense of self, affirming nature, relentless work ethic, and empathy towards others. 

Maddie Handler

Jack Stanko is the nephew and Godson of the groom, Chris. Watching Jack grow up, Chris has been amazed by the incredible person he is becoming. Jack is smart, sweet, kind, and caring. He loves his family, friends, his cat, and—as is true for many 12-year-old boys—his Xbox.

When he’s not gaming, Chris and Jack enjoy spending time together watching shows, playing games, going out to eat, and hanging out at Disney. Since moving back to Chicago, Chris and Maggie have loved having even more time with Jack. Maggie, in particular, is thrilled that Jack no longer has to introduce her to the restaurant hostess as “ My Future Aunt Maggie...Maybe” and can now simply call her “My Aunt Maggie.”

Jack Stanko

Petra Wasilkoff is a close friend of both Chris and Maggie. Chris first met Petra at Carl Sandburg High School, where they connected through shared extracurriculars like choir and theater. Their friendship extended beyond high school, with the two visiting each other and even traveling the world together.

During Maggie’s visits to Chicago, and even more so after Maggie and Chris moved back, Maggie and Petra’s friendship grew stronger. Maggie was honored to serve as the sole witness at Petra and her wife Marissa’s elopement, where Chris had the privilege of officiating.

Chris and Maggie deeply admire Petra’s unique perspective, infectious laughter, deep compassion, and unwavering kindness toward everyone she meets.

Petra McLean

Doug is one of Chris’s closest friends from his time at Disney! They met while working for the Minnie Van service in the summer of '17 and quickly bonded over bike rides, bespoke firework creations, cooking experiments, and late-night YouTube marathons. Their friendship deepened during the pandemic when Chris, Doug, and Doug’s wife Jenn formed a quarantine pod, spending their days playing board games, cooking out, and going on long walks with their dog. Over the years, they've shared adventures across the country and have eaten great food, both on and off Disney property. Doug & Jenn have always opened their home to Chris in Florida, and their warmth and generosity mean the world to him. Chris is so thankful to have Doug’s steady friendship and big heart by his side on his wedding day.

Doug Maturo

Dani Vidal is Maggie’s best friend in Chicago! Dani and Maggie met after mutual friend Karli Cope suggested a coffee date shortly after Maggie’s transition to the city. They became fast friends through a shared love of Chicago adventures, good cries, game nights, and Friday night cooking sessions. Dani helped Maggie learn how to navigate “L,” has acted as a party cohost, and was instrumental in helping Maggie find her wedding dress. Maggie loves Dani’s generous spirit, thoughtful way of life, her deep capacity to love others, her encouraging nature, and her sharp wit! Dani is a key reason why Chicago feels like home, and Maggie and Chris are so excited to celebrate their wedding with Dani!!

Dani Vidal

Marissa McLean is a close friend of both Chris and Maggie. Chris first met Marissa five years ago during one of his visits to Chicago, and their friendship has grown ever since. Maggie met Marissa in the fall of '22 and immediately connected with her warmth, humor, and kindness.

Marissa is someone who brings thoughtfulness, joy, and an incredible ability to make those around her feel valued. Her authenticity and compassion shine through in everything she does, whether she’s sharing a laugh, offering support, or simply being present in the moment. These are the same qualities that make her a remarkable officiant, and they are among the many reasons Chris and Maggie are so grateful to have her in their lives.

When it came time to choose someone to officiate their wedding, Chris and Maggie didn’t hesitate. Having had the honor of officiating Marissa and Petra’s wedding at Disney World, Chris knows firsthand how deeply Marissa values the significance of marriage. Her ability to bring reverence, joy, and a deeply personal touch to every ceremony makes her the perfect person to stand by their side as they say their vows.

Marissa McLean

Wedding Party

HOW WILL PARKING WORK? Ceremony: At St. Pauls United Church of Christ, there is a dedicated parking lot at 634 W Kemper Pl, Chicago, IL 60614. Kemper is a one-way street, so you will enter from North Geneva Terrace. Look for the labeled parking lot on the right, about halfway down the block. Reception: At The Joinery, there is ample street parking available in the surrounding neighborhood. There is not a dedicated lot.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO THE WEDDING? We are so thrilled that you are joining us for this day! While we don't have a set dress code, we'd love for you to wear whatever you feel is the best version of yourself. If that is a cute black dress, amazing! If this means your finest flannel and jeans, that works too. We just want to see you! Our wedding party will be wearing mis-matched fall tones for the day, but these does not mean that fall colors are off limits. Wear what feels good to you!

WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE IN CHICAGO? We're wondering this too! Typically, the weather in early November will include highs in the mid-50's to lows in the mid-40's. The summer arrived late, and stayed late, so we're hoping for a little heat wave for our big day. We recommend bringing a coat, as the wedding will primarily be indoors, with coat closets available. Let's all stay tuned to our weather apps as we get closer to the big day. ☺️

WHAT SHOULD I DO BETWEEN THE RECEPTION AND CEREMONY? Enjoy an afternoon in Chicago! We'll have dinner ready at the reception. Near Ceremony: Lincoln Park1. Explore the <a href="https://www.lpzoo.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lincoln Park Zoo</a>: Free!2. Wander through the <a href="https://www.lincolnparkconservancy.org/projects/conservatory-garden/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lincoln Park Conservatory</a>: Free with Reservations!3. Learn at the <a href="https://www.chicagohistory.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chicago History Museum</a>: Ticketed4. Get coffee: Bourgeois Pig Cafe, Soloway Coffee, or Philz Between Ceremony &amp; Reception1. Take in art at the <a href="https://mcachicago.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Museum of Contemporary Art</a> or <a href="https://www.artic.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Art Institute of Chicago</a>2. Experience Chicago architecture via a boat tour! Our favorites are from <a href="https://wendellaboats.com/pages/tours-cruises" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wendella</a> or the <a href="https://www.architecture.org/city-tours/river-cruise?date=2025-11-08T06%253A00%253A00.000Z" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chicago Architecture Center</a>.3. Browse at our favorite grocery store in Chicago: <a href="https://gangnammarketusa.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gangnam Market</a>4. Visit the <a href="https://www.chipublib.org/locations/34/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Harold Washington Library Center</a>. Near Reception: Logan Square1. Try a new beer at <a href="https://www.pilotprojectbrewing.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pilot Project Brewing</a>2. Visit one of our favorite used bookstores: <a href="https://www.myopicbookstore.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Myopic Books</a>3. Enjoy a ice cream sundae at <a href="https://margiescandies.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Margie’s Candies</a>4. Play board games at <a href="https://www.snakesandlattes.com/chicago" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Snakes &amp; Lattes </a>5. Explore Logan Square coffee culture: Dark Matter, Ipseno, Cafe Umbria, Wolf and Co.

Q + A

We've secured a block of rooms with a discounted rate at the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Riverwalk. We've selected this spot due to its easy access to public transportation and proximity downtown Chicago!

Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown Riverwalk

AirBnB can provide a neighborhood experience in the Logan Square area, close to The Joinery!

Logan Square AirBnB

Travel

 St. Paul's United Church of Christ

St. Pauls United Church of Christ, located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, is a vibrant, progressive Christian community. Their welcoming statement says it best: "Welcome to those whose hearts are on fire with faith, and to those who bring their doubt inside our doors. Welcome to first-time guests and longtime members. Welcome to single people, tiny children, grandparents, and families of all configurations. Welcome to those who rejoice and to those who grieve. Welcome to LGBTQ+ people. Welcome to each and to everyone. We are blessed by your presence, and we are glad you are here." Maggie and Chris chose this historic church for their wedding because it reflects their shared commitment to inclusivity, love, and grace. They hope to build their own home with the same spirit of welcoming, where love dwells, all are safe, and divisions are healed. Founded in 1843 by German immigrants, St. Pauls has a long history of resilience and service. After enduring multiple fires—including the Great Chicago Fire of 1871—the congregation rebuilt, recommitting to their mission to “make a joyful sound in the city.” In addition to its spiritual mission, St. Pauls has been a force for justice and community action. From housing protestors during the 1968 Democratic National Convention to hosting Lincoln Park's first MLK Day march against violence, St. Pauls has consistently stood as a beacon of activism and compassion. In 1989, St. Pauls became one of the first churches in America to openly affirm LGBTQ+ people, further solidifying its legacy as a community rooted in inclusivity. For more than 180 years, it has introduced thousands to the uplifting love of God through worship that is traditional yet far from conventional. Maggie and Chris are honored to celebrate their vows in this historic and deeply meaningful space. You can learn more about St. Pauls United Church of Christ by visiting their website: <a href="https://spucc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">SPUCC.org</a>

The Joinery is a beautifully restored venue located at the intersection of Chicago's Logan Square and Humboldt Park neighborhoods. Once a woodworking shop, it now serves as a warm, light-filled space where past and present seamlessly come together. The Joinery’s warmth and timeless character reflect the joy, love, and inclusivity that Chris and Maggie hope to share on their special day, making it the perfect backdrop to create cherished memories. Maggie and Chris fell in love with The Joinery for its unique combination of intimate, cozy spaces for connection and larger, open areas for dancing, dining, and joy-filled celebration. We can't wait to celebrate with you here! For more on the Joinery, you can visit their website: <a href="https://www.thejoinerychicago.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TheJoineryChicago.com</a>

Maggie & Chris

Maggie & Chris

Q + A