Wedding Party

Arianne Hutchins

Officiant

Arianne Hutchins is the person that has known Shannon and Al the longest as a couple. Ari started as Al’s coworker and quickly became a fast friend to both Shannon and Al. In addition to introducing the couple to The Wedding Coordinator, she’s an indispensable trivia teammate, game night enthusiast, self-described as weilding weaponized unprofessionalism at work, and we couldn’t think of anyone better to officiate our wedding. Believe us, we tried. Ari is thrilled to be officiating the marriage of Al and Shannon!

The Bride's Side

Featuring The Siblings

Mary Jean Shirk

Matron of Honor

Dr. Mary Jean Shirk is Shannon's Matron of Honor. She's the oldest of the Rainsford kids, and has known Shannon since 1995. She is adventurous, caring, and has been an inspiration to Shannon. These sisters are inseparable, and have always supported one another. The only exception is when they play Wingspan together - Mary Jean can tuck bird cards like there's no tomorrow.

Brendan Rainsford

Butler of Honor

Known by many names (DanDan, B, Mary-no-Shan-no-Brendan), Brendan is the second sibling in the trifecta. He was the youngest sibling for two years before Shannon appeared, but came to love his role as the middle of the sibling sandwich. Brendan has a huge heart, filled with love for the puppies, his work, and theme parks. One time, Brendan and Shannon rode 'Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway' at Disney's Hollywood Sudios 5 times in a row.

The Groomsmen

Featuring The Boys

Jack Ullman

Best Man

Jack Ullman has been Al’s younger brother since he was born; that's how it works when you share biological parents. The Ullman Brothers have also been a musical dynamic duo since elementary school, playing everything from Minuet in G by J.S. Bach to Crazy Love by Van Morrison. Even though they often have lived far apart, their shared love of family, music, teaching, and food keep them close together and Jack is the best at reminding Al to have more fun. Even though Al is the older brother, he has always said that when he grows up, he hopes to be more like Jack. Love you bro.

Vincent DeSio Jr.

Groomsman

Vincent DeSio Jr. and Al share a special kind of love – Bass Clef Love. The two met in the back of the UNC Symphony orchestra and Vince soon became one of Al’s closest friends in college. They spent regular Sunday evenings at 9 pm, demolishing pistachios in Vince’s dorm room while watching newly released episodes of Game of Thrones. Vince brings the party wherever he goes and is always down for a board game or an outdoor activity. Vince lives in Seattle with his wife Kristen and their dog Kona.

Sean McWeeny

Groomsman

Sean McWeeny and Al met on eHarmony – or really UNC’s Freshman Roommate Finder website – and the two quickly bonded over their love of music, running, and their shared interest in the sciences. They were astounded by how many interests they shared, down to having running paces within a few seconds of each other. Al and Sean shared a room together their Freshman year, then again their Sophomore year, and again again Junior year, and again again again their Senior year! Sean is the only person, outside Al's immediate family, to have lived with Al longer than Shannon and will hold that title until April 2027.

Maebe

The Wedding Coordinator