LUXBAR

Rehearsal Dinner

The Night Before

Welcome Drinks

Wedding Day

St Michael Catholic Church in Old Town

Ceremony

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

Reception

Howl At The Moon

After Party

Our Wedding

Our Story

Jillian and Billy first met in August of 2003 at Mary Seat of Wisdom. Billy had just transferred schools for his 8th grade year. This was great because those that attended MSW know that this particular graduating class had a 3:1 girl to boy ratio. Not much is remembered about the specifics, but one thing is for sure, Jillian did have a picture of her and Billy dancing at the 8th grade dance in her scrapbook. They both graduated from MSW in June of 2004 and went their separate ways to different high schools. (Although they did not keep in touch, as fate would have it, their brothers Joey &amp; Danny became best friends and so they would frequently be around each others' siblings).

Time passed and when Jillian and Billy were 21 years old they ran into each other at none other than the Emerald Isle in Edison Park. It was a friendly meet and greet that also included some other MSW classmates and some legal beverages.

Fast forward to February 2023, both Jillian and Billy found themselves single, in the area of Arlington Heights, and on Bumble. To Jillian's surprise, she received a "super like" from Billy on this dating website. She then “liked” him back, but was hesitant to send him a message, (which women must do first for the match to continue). Jillian was flattered by Billy’s initiative, but her guard was up. She knew that Billy could easily get her contact information from his brother or hers... but after realizing that this guy was the real deal, she eventually initiated the Bumble conversation (even though Billy had to get the convo extended).

Jillian then sent Billy a gif of Rose from the Titanic that read, "It's been 84 Years" and they immediately hit it off with their conversation. Billy asked Jillian on a date. They went out a few days later and both walked away feeling like it was the best first date ever! Billy was sold and Jillian needed 6 more weeks of dating Billy to stop being stubborn and admit... THIS WAS THE GUY!!

March 22, 2023... Jillian and Billy were officially boyfriend and girlfriend. They went on to date and enjoy their favorite things: the Cubs, concerts, Chicago, Harry (their dog), traveling, and spending time with their favorite people.

In September of 2024, Jillian and Billy moved to Old Town together with Harry, and views of the skyline. Prior to moving in, Billy asked Jillian's parents for their blessing to marry her. So on December 14, 2024, Billy and Jillian got engaged at London House! As Billy likes to say to Jillian, "It was faster getting you to say 'yes' to becoming my fiance' than saying 'yes' to becoming my girlfriend."

Now their love story continues as they will tie the knot on July 18, 2026 at St. Michael in Old Town. They can't wait to celebrate with you and be surrounded by their closest family and friends!

The 8th Grade Dance: May 2004 at Mary Seat of Wisdom

The Titanic GIF that Jillian sent Billy on Bumble

Their First Date: February 10, 2023 

THE PROPOSAL: London House on December 14, 2024

Photos

Friend of Bride from Mary Seat of Wisdom 

Hannah Cushing

Friend of Bride from Illinois State University and Alpha Gamma Delta

Erin McErlean-Paske

Lauren Grazioso

Friend of the Bride and Sister of the Groom 

Kaity Forde

Alyssa Tippman

Nicole Irsuto

Michelle Neuhaus

Dana Czerniak

Jackie Leibold

Kasia Poziemski

Aubry Triptow

Maria Grzeskiewicz 

Friend of Bride from Illinois State University 

Kayla Linsner

Maggie Duewerth 

Skye Fontanez

Addison 

Paige 

Friend of Groom from Mary Seat of Wisdom 

Michael Picardi

Dan Steinfels

Cameron Janowski 

Tyler Frient 

Bruce Sypniewski 

Todd Schultz

Friend and Brother-In-Law of Groom, Brother of Bride

Joey Grazioso

Mihir Pande

Vinny Santangelo

Patrick Delaney 

Friend of Groom from University of Illinois and Delta Tau Delta 

Paul Kovacs

Friend of Groom from University of Illinois

Daniel Hejza

Patrick Grayhack

Matthew Perry

Jake

Luke

Joe Tippman

 Brent Paske

Michael Fontanez

Wedding Party

Dress Code

Hotel rooms must be booked online by June 22, 2026 to receive the special rate in our room block. The rate will either be $269 or $289 per night pending which tower you choose to stay. No minimum night stay required. If you are having trouble with the online link below, please contact Jillian or Billy. For any questions regarding your reservation, please reach out to Shay Gordon at Shay.Gordon@ihg.com If parking overnight, SpotHero is encouraged!

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile by IHG

Travel

Explore Chicago's Neighborhoods

West Loop – A Foodie’s Paradise

Once an industrial district, West Loop is now one of Chicago’s hottest neighborhoods, known for its incredible dining scene and trendy vibes. <a href="https://www.auchevaldiner.com/chicago/home" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Au Cheval</a> – Home to what’s often called the best burger in America.<a href="https://www.fultonmarketdistrict.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fulton Market Street </a>– Walk around and soak in the industrial-chic atmosphere, with tons of cool restaurants and rooftop bars.<a href="https://www.guinnessbrewerychicago.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Guinness Open Gate Brewery</a> - This is Guinness’ only U.S. brewery outside of Baltimore. It offers a mix of classic Irish stouts and new experimental brews crafted just for Chicago. The space is massive, featuring a beer garden, taproom, and restaurant serving elevated pub fare.<a href="https://www.trivolitavern.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Trivoli Tavern </a>- Tucked down a cobblestone alley, this candlelit tavern serves upscale American and European-inspired dishes alongside craft cocktails and an extensive whiskey selection.<a href="https://www.lyrarestaurant.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lyra</a> – A modern Greek restaurant with a stunning open-flame kitchen, Mediterranean-inspired cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.

Old Town/Lincoln Park- Jillian & Billy's Neighborhood

<a href="https://www.evisitorguide.com/chicago/metrowalkz/old-town-chicago-walking-tour/wells-street-old-town-chicago.php" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Walk Down Wells Street</a> – The heart of Old Town, Wells Street is lined with unique boutiques, coffee shops, bars, and restaurants. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, shopping, or people-watching.<a href="https://www.opentable.com/r/topo-gigio" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Topo Gigio</a>- One of Jillian &amp; Billy's favorite restaurants. Discover modern, Tuscan-inspired cuisine in the heart of Chicago's Old Town. This cozy, charming eatery has been a local favorite for over 35 years, topping "Best of" lists consistently.<a href="https://www.secondcity.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Second City</a> – Catch a comedy show at the legendary improv theater where stars like Tina Fey, Bill Murray, and Steve Carell got their start.<a href="https://www.twinanchorsribs.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Twin Anchor's </a>– A historic gem in Chicago’s Old Town known for its legendary ribs and classic charm, it’s an ideal spot for a fun and memorable gathering.<a href="https://www.theoldtownalehouse.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Old Town Ale House</a> – A dive bar with tons of character, quirky artwork, and a history of being a late-night favorite among comedians and locals. CASH ONLY!<a href="https://www.armitagealehouse.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Armitage Ale House</a> – A cozy, old-world-style tavern with dark wood interiors, vintage decor, and an incredible menu of elevated pub fare and craft cocktails.<a href="https://www.lpzoo.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lincoln Park Zoo</a> – One of the country’s oldest free zoos, this is a must-visit for animal lovers and families. The scenic park setting makes it a great place for a walk, even if you’re just passing through.<a href="https://www.greencitymarket.org/market/details/lincoln" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Green City Market </a>– A fantastic farmers’ market (April–November) offering fresh produce, baked goods, and local eats right in Lincoln Park.<a href="https://www.jparkerchicago.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The J. Parker Rooftop</a> – A rooftop bar with stunning views of the park and Lake Michigan, perfect for sunset cocktails.<a href="https://www.cafebabareeba.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!</a> – A staple in Lincoln Park for delicious Spanish tapas and sangria, great for group dining.Gold Coast - Where The Drake is Located<a href="https://gibsonssteakhouse.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gibsons Bar &amp; Steakhouse</a> – A Chicago institution, perfect for a steak and a classic dirty martini. Great for people-watching, especially on the patio. One of Jillian and Billy's favorite bars!!<a href="https://www.mapleandash.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Maple &amp; Ash</a> – A modern, high-energy steakhouse with amazing cocktails and a fun, lively atmosphere.<a href="https://luxbar.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">LuxBar </a>– A stylish yet relaxed spot for cocktails, burgers, and brunch.<a href="https://www.lecolonial.com/chicago/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Le Colonial</a> – A beautiful French-Vietnamese restaurant with a romantic, Parisian-style atmosphere.<a href="https://rh.com/us/en/chicago/restaurant" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The 3 Arts Club Café (inside RH Chicago)</a> – A stunning café inside Restoration Hardware, featuring chandeliers, indoor trees, and a serene courtyard. Perfect for a coffee, brunch, or glass of wine.<a href="https://www.oakstreetchicago.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Oak Street Shopping District</a> – Chicago’s version of Rodeo Drive, featuring high-end designers like Hermès, Prada, Chanel, and Saint Laurent.

Other Must- Do Activities in Chicago

<a href="https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/chicagoriverwalk/home.html.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Riverwalk</a> – Stroll along the Chicago River, grab a drink at a riverside bar, and enjoy the views.<a href="https://architecturetourchicago.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Architecture River Cruise</a> – One of the best ways to see Chicago’s iconic skyline and learn about its history.<a href="https://theskydeck.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Skydeck at Sears Tower</a> – Stand on The Ledge, a glass box that extends 1,353 feet over the city.<a href="https://millenniumparkfoundation.org/art-architecture/cloud-gate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Millennium Park &amp; The Bean</a> – Take the classic Chicago tourist photo and explore the park.<a href="https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/lakefront-trail" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lakefront Trail</a> – Rent a bike or go for a walk along Lake Michigan with amazing skyline views. Oak Street Beach is across from The Drake and will have a Divvy Bike rack for renting.<a href="https://www.mlb.com/cubs/ballpark" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wrigley</a>- Take some time to catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, enjoy Gallagher Way, and/or Wrigleyville! This is one of Jillian and Billy's favorite parts of Chicago!

Things to Do

Registry

Saint Michael of Old Town and Fire of 1871

St. Michael in Old Town  The Great Chicago Fire of 1871

On October 9, 1871, mid-morning, the great bells in St. Michael’s tower began to toll a warning, slowly, sonorously. It was a bright and dry day, a little more than two years since the dedication of the imposing new church. St. Michael’s history goes back to 1848, when Michael Diversey donated the land. His family’s name is perpetuated in Diversey Boulevard, and his Christian name in the church is dedicated to his patron, Saint Michael. The first church was built in 1852 on the corner of Hudson Avenue and North Avenue, and now, in 1871, as the firestorm moved northward, the new church and neighborhood were threatened. People hoped the fire could be stopped at the Chicago River; however, gusts of wind blew flaming debris across the water to the grain elevators on the northern bank. The wooden roof of the pumping station went up in a blaze, leaving the entire city without water, and the southside gasworks exploded with a roar. The firestorm and its whirlwinds began to devour the North Side. Called by the tolling of St. Michael’s church bells, the German parishioners filled the wood-cobbled streets and planked sidewalks, hoping the massive walls of St. Michael's would resist the fire. When the crowd saw the Alexian Brothers Hospital going up in flames, they knew that their parish church would burn. Pastor Peter Zimmer and volunteers dashed about the church, scooping up what they could and hurrying to the monastery garden to bury some of the salvaged treasures. The large wooden crucifix that hung in the monastery’s lower corridor was dismantled and buried along with other treasures and many volumes from the library. Father Charles Hahn returned from a northern suburb with a team and wagon which they loaded with vestments, sacred items, the hand-carved stations of the cross, and as much clothing as they could gather. Then, the Sisters clambered aboard as they set out for safety four miles north at the orphanage of the Poor Handmaid Sisters at Rosehill. Clapboard houses on all sides of the church wrinkled and withered in fire. Some called it an ocean of flames, describing it as a breaker a mile long. It leaped like waves 300 feet into the air and blew smoke, sparks, and lighted shingles in every direction. Over the roar of fire, shouts, and the tolling of the bells, explosions were heard as the fire force blew up buildings. They watched as the church took fire. Finally, great shafts of flame and burning debris smashed the east side window and entered the church. Alight like a torch held aloft in the darkened sky, the upper section of the bell tower burned and began to crumble. The huge bells hurtled from their tower with a dull thud and melted into a toneless mass of bronze. By nine o’clock on the evening of the 9th, the fire had gotten as far as the city’s outskirts at Fullerton Avenue. Beyond Fullerton Avenue, the fire did not have much to feed on. Rain began to fall. Pastor Fr. Zimmer, the clergy staff, and a handful of parishioners returned on Tuesday morning to survey the debris through a pall of smoke and smoldering embers. Gone were the Redemptorist monastery, the Sisters’ convent, and the school. Miraculously the shell of St. Michael’s stood. The solid brick and stone walls and the soaring Corinthian columns had survived the fire; they stood then as they would stand again when the church was restored. The burning of their church lit a flame in the determination of St. Michael’s parishioners. They set about propping up the now free-standing columns and began clearing away the rubble. They shoveled piles of ashes and debris into the catacomb of tunnels that ran beneath the old church [while ashes are still in the basement of the church, they are no longer accessible]. Many of the books and other treasures buried in the monastery garden were disintegrated. The icon of Our Mother Perpetual Help had been previously rescued and stored for safekeeping. Our Lady would continue to bless St. Michael Church in Old Town. The parishioners wasted very little time on self-pity and with typical German industry, set about rebuilding their homes and church. Soon temporary wooden huts dotted the neighborhood around St. Michael Church. Temporarily, the Redemptorists stayed in Rosehill. On Sunday, October 15, 1871, Pastor Fr. Zimmer said Mass for the people in a private home. During the week, Brothers Adam, Theobold, and Adrian, with the help of a local carpenter, put up a ninety-foot wooden shanty. Its back wall was stone for the shanty propped against the old garden wall. One end of this structure served as a shelter for an open-air altar. On Sunday, October 22, 1871, the first two services were offered in this shelter. In early November 1871, a temporary building was erected on Hulburt (Cleveland Avenue) Street. The lower floors created temporary quarters for the church. The upper floors provided space for a school, and later, when the church was completely restored, the entire building was used as a school. Within two years after the church was destroyed, damage to the structure was repaired and insured with the donations of skilled labor and money from so many benefactors including St. Michael’s devastated parishioners, Bishop Foley, and Redemptorist parishes as far away as New York and Boston. The great day in St. Michael parish’s history came on October 12, 1873, when the parishioners celebrated the resurrection of their church. Marching bands from the parishes of St. Joseph, St. Boniface, St. Anthony, and others awakened the slumbering city with exuberant distinct marches. The bands met at Erie Street and began a two-mile-long triumphant parade to the doors of St. Michael. They drew up before a huge wreath on the corner of Hurlbut Street (Cleveland Avenue) and Linden Street (Eugenie Street) inscribed in grand gold letters, with the cheery if slightly prosaic message: “Welcome you, friends, from afar and near, to bless this, the house of the Lord most dear.” It was not until 1876, however, that the new bells arrived. According to the church records they were cast in bronze by the McShane Company. They were named after St. Michael, St. Mary, St. Joseph, St. Alphonsus, and St. Theresa. These are the melodious bells that Oldtowners hear today as they sound on the quarter, half, and hour. It is often said “you know that you are in Old Town when you hear the bells in St. Michael.” That same year of 1876 saw the completion of the parish house and the installation of tinted glass to replace the temporary translucent windows. It was on September 16, 1902, that the 16 leaded and stained-glass windows were installed. They were created by the Mayer Window Art Institute of Munich, Germany, and they are ranked high among the beautiful examples of German ecclesiastic art glass still to be seen in this country. St. Michael's doors are still open to welcome all to express their faith in a God who tremendously loves everyone. (This story was updated and edited using information from the Redemptorist Archival Annals and the Parish Centennial publication). Rev. E.Vella, C.Ss.R. Aug. 19, 2022.