Wedding Party Profiles 4: The Crimmins Girls

Can You Stand the Hotness? Mary, Mom, Megan, and Katie

Breaking up my pattern of pairing one bridesmaid and one groomsman for the entry, I thought I'd shine the blog spotlight on all three of my sisters - The Crimmins Girls. For all you casual guests out there who are coming to the reception, and maybe you don't know the family too well, this article will be a helpful and informative explanation of "Who's Who," amongst the XX chromosomers in La Casa de Crimmins.

Katie, A.K.A.: "Kah" or "Crims"

A Rare Photo of Katie During Her Decade-Long, "Blue Phase."

At 22, she's the eldest of my sisters - the first girl of the family. Over the years, we've shared and developed a special bond that only two passive-agressive siblings could establish in a boisterous household. To comprehend, while listening in on one of our conversations would be an exercise in complete futility, as our every exchange is adorned and peppered with so many inside-jokes, anecdotes, and made-up family slang. Many times, words aren't needed, (even made-up ones), as we've exchanged enough looks over the years to know pretty much what the other is thinking. And guests can take note - this will most likely explain why she and I will burst out laughing randomly during the wedding reception. Sibling telepathy. Long before the internet, cell-phones, or Nintendo, Katie and I have lived through, told, and re-told countless family stories, , and most likely embellishing them to the point that they no longer resemble the facts (but they're a whole lot more entertaining!)

And that's what my Katie is, an entertainer. A wit dryer than a martini, she'll gracefully punctuate one of her jokes with a theatrical raise of the eyebrows, or slide effortlessly into a spot-on impression - talking with her is never dull. And as Ally and I take this next, milestone step in our family, we are both so very grateful to have you part of our day.

Katie and Mary Joined Ally at Her Bachelorette Party in Long Beach.

Mary, A.K.A.: "Marez," or "Crimma"

Tom and Mary Channel Fred and Ginger on the Dance Floor

There's never a shortage of words to describe my sister, Mary. "Vivacious," "creative," and "fun-filled," come to mind. Mary and I share a lot more traits than either of us could recognize - we love organizing parties, we love using the computer, and neither of us is afraid to give it all we got when we're having fun with our friends. Reflecting on Mary as a child, what has always stood out about her is her endearing exuberance in all that she did. It wouldn't be uncommon for her and Katie to have a cartwheel contest at the neighborhood pizzeria after finishing their slices, put on a mini-dance recital in the living room, or share her Gold-and-Red cheer routine with every single visitor that came through the doors at La Casa de Crimmins. She was never afraid to express herself, and I think that's what I love most about Mary. Courageous freedom to be yourself - it's all too rare in this self-conscious world that we live in. So when you see that tall, blonde beauty dancing her heart out at the reception, and when you get to talk to that girl with constant laughter in her voice, you'll know who Mary is.

Katie, "G-Ma," Mary, and Ally Perfect the "Crimma Look" at the Jersey Shore

Megan, A.K.A.: "Kitty," or "Mega!"

"Megan, my Dear, Your Dancing is Divine!"

The waist-high gregarious hug-machine with the curly blonde hair known as Megan has been a familiar personality at La Casa de Crimmins these last thirteen years. My teenage baby sister has been charming friends and guests since she was old enough to walk. Never shy, it wouldn't be unusual for her to stroll over and sit on your lap. Aside from her disarming friendliness and affection, her honesty is what I love and respect so much about her. With that frank openness, exempt of any ulterior motivations, Megan will tell you exactly what's on her mind, or even write heartfelt notes for you to find. Added to her honest and caring nature, Megan is a hard-worker at school and a loyal companion to her friends. A champion speller, she spends many hours each day after school studying for her assignments. An avid animal lover, Megan is looking forward to taking care of little critters one day, and is secretly hoping the she could finally get that dog, now that I'm moving out... because as she's declared on many occasions, "Tom's allergic!" Whether my folks finally cave, or they just figure out another good excuse is still very much up in the air... but Meggie will get that puppy or kitten one day! And what a lucky pet it'll be to have such a loving and dedicated owner like my sister, Megan!

Katie, Megan, Mary, and Ally at the Neighborhood Carvel Back in 1999.

"You're My Sisters... I Love My Sisters..."