Ellen & Eugene
Wedding Party
Mary Jane O'Connor
Bridesmaid
"I’m the long distance baby sis of the bride and current reigning number one fan of the happy couple. We first met prior to me having object permanence but I‘ve been told we hit it off.”
Maddy Gebhardt
Bridesmaid
“Ellen and I met on the first day of 3rd grade, and we’ve been inseparable ever since. We grew up together, lived together all 4 years of college, and now visit each other as often as we can! I couldn’t be happier for Ellen and Allen, and can’t wait to celebrate by their side.”
Ivy Cass
Bridesmaid
"Ellen and I have been friends as long as I can remember. Our friendship started through our moms who worked together, continued throughout childhood, grew through the awkward stages, and now spans several states. Through all of life’s seasons, Ellen and I have always found a way to laugh, challenge each other, and make the most of life. "
Paige Bocklage
Bridesmaid
“Ellen and I have been friends our entire life. Our families are very close and we were raised to be more like family. I cherish her friendship greatly and am very excited to stand by her as she marries her love, Allen!”
Jared Tonyan
Groomsman
I first met Allen playing lacrosse in high school. The years spent with him on the field and elsewhere was always the utmost adventure. We were not able to see each other much in college or when I ran off to the Navy, but we kept in touch and it seems like he and I can pick up right where we left off anytime and anywhere we happen to meet. When I look back on it, I cannot believe I have known Swish for nearly 13 years and known him and Ellen as a couple for around 9 of those. They have always seemed, at least on the outside, to be a perfect match and I wish both the best in all the life to come
Mayand Vakil
Groomsman
Its hard to believe that it has been 8 years since I first met Swish in our dorm room at FAR. A lot has changed since then. We aren't the dumb kids we were (I guess only slightly less so). But the more things change, the more they stay the same. Ellen has always been the biggest part of Swish's life throughout this whole journey, and you two have been absolutely perfect for each other. I'm so glad you invited me to be part of your big day, something we all knew was coming even 8 years ago! Cheers to the cutest couple we know, Swish and Ellen!
Jake Galeski
Groomsman
Swish and I go all the way back to first semester of freshman year and survived 4 years of Chemical Engineering together. Although, I’m pretty sure he stayed up studying with me all night out of pity because he definitely didn’t need it. He even put up with Joe, Scout, and I as roommates for 2 years. He definitely carried the team. Even though I haven’t seen it yet, I’m sure Swish and Ellen’s new house doesn’t have any dog hair tumbleweeds like our college apartment. I couldn’t be happier for Swish and Ellen, they’re the most adorable couple I know. Love you guys, can’t wait to celebrate with you on your big day.
Joe Berglind
Groomsman
"I first met Swish our Freshman year at U of I. I've been witness to how great of a guy he is including but not limited to his eloquence in hitting the dance floor when "Turn Down for What" came on at the bar as well as his masterful ability to sleep anywhere at any time within seconds. Its always an adventure with Swish having survived multiple trips with him from Oktoberfest to Nashville and beyond. Every time I've been with Ellen and Swish, you can just tell how much they love each other and how happy they are being together. I'm bananas happy for the two of them as they are LITERALLY perfect for each other. Congrats you guys! Honored to be standing up there with you on the big day!"
Anne Fitzsimmons
Mother of the Bride
"Of course I am mad about Ellen Louise ever since she entered the world. And I knew Allen was something incredible when he nursed El after she got her wisdom teeth removal. I can't wait for their wedding!"
Tim O'Connor & Lisa Guillory
Father & Step-Mother of the Bride
“We are so excited about Ellen and Allen, and have been waiting for this event for some time now. But great things like their love take time to achieve. You should ask me about when Allen called me to ask for Ellen’s hand, and I thought it was my friend also named Allen....”
Toni Lynn Allen
Mother of the Groom
“It has been years in the making; with football, lacrosse, cheer leading and dancing, high school graduation, a dog adoption, college activities, graduation from two different Universities, miles traveled in the states and aboard, careers made, home purchasing and lots and lots of family and friends. I am over the moon for this day to happen. As a mother I will admit that Allen is an amazing, special, kind young man but with Ellen he is even better. I could not have chosen a better partner for him. So proud of what you both have accomplished and excited for the adventure that this life will bring you. Love you both to the moon and back. Momma”
Gene Swisher
Father of the Groom
"So proud of these two. High school sweethearts who each chose very challenging college degrees at universities five hours apart then both going on to the beginning successful careers. All the while falling more and more in love with each other. I'm so looking forward to being a part Allen and Ellen life time relationship."
Dan O'Connor
Brother of the Bride
"I'm the bride's beloved older brother, role model, moral compass, and similar hyperboles. Founder of the Similar Name SO Curse and current contender for biggest fan.”
Erin Baron
Sister of the Groom
"Ever since the day Allen met Ellen I knew they were the perfect soul mates for each other. Being the big sister of Allen I've witnessed many happy moments but when he met Ellen I knew that was his happiest. I can't wait to celebrate their special day with them! I love you both!!!"