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..."

Wedding Party Profiles 3: Andrea & Albert

The difficult job I've taken on with this Wedding Party Profile idea was attempting to adequately put into words how much each person that's standing up with us on August 5th really means to us. How do you properly put into sentences the love, the loyalty, and the immense connection we have to these special individuals? Fact is, you can't. Like I mentioned in the last entry, my paltry scribblings really don't do justice to how important each one of these people are in our hearts and minds. This is especially, and particularly hard in Andrea's case.

Believe me, it's hard enough to explain what a wonderful person I think Andrea is. So forget about me trying to convey what she means to Ally. These two girls have been the dearest of friends since they were in the playpen together. People are impressed when they hear that my buddies in the wedding party are all friends I've had since high school. Andrea and Ally have seen their deep and abiding friendship flourish over nearly three decades! How awesome is that?

When you have the pleasure of meeting Andrea, it's a bit hard to believe that such a sweet and gentle gal actually spends her days as an excellent, albeit tough-as-nails elementary school teacher. You'd never guess how someone so easy-going and laid-back could superbly handle a classroom full of fourth graders. But trust me, she does! Yet, despite her obvious intelligence and good sense, she still can always be counted upon to enthusiastically participate in whatever wacky idea or party Ally and I cook up.

And speaking of zany hijinx, when we held our first-ever Cinco de Mayo fiesta a couple of months ago, I found Andrea generously assisting Ally in the kitchen - cutting veggies, preparing food, even washing dishes. I was mortified that a guest was doing so much work. I practically needed a crowbar to pry her away from the sink. "Andrea! I won't have friends cleaning dishes!" I declared. To which she replied, "I'm not a friend, Tom. I'm family!" Hearing this, I responded, "Well, in that case, make sure to sweep up after you're done." And a smack in my face with the dish towel ended that particular family conversation.

But I'll be honest with you - Ally and I are blessed to have family like Andrea!

Where My Girls At?

Drinks in Hand? Check. Ties Around Head? Check. Let the Karaoke Begin!

And while we're on the subject of, "family," let me tell you about my honorary kid brother, Albert. He's certainly spent enough time sleeping under my parents' roof to qualify as a sibling. Like clockwork, every college holiday would involve Al coming by to visit La Casa de Crimmins. Next thing you know, it's two weeks later and he's still chillin' on the couch, sharing a conversation and a cup of tea with my Grandma.

How such a special friendship can begin with a chance meeting over origami folding at a nursing home in Queens is anyone's guess. Such a unique start is fitting for the two of us. Some of my most cherished memories with Al have involved long, bizarre conversations and an outrageous abuse of some random restaurant's free soda refill policy (I think we bankrupted Fuddruckers from all the Diet Coke we drank that one time...)

Whether we're comparing the merits of Ren and Stimpy to Animaniacs, or pondering the meaning of life, or brainstorming sketch ideas for that TV show we're gonna make (one day, Al! It's gonna happen!) any time with Al is always a great time. We were even together the time we met the legendary "Umberto!" His notoriety for wacky t-shirts and encyclopedic knowledge of the most esoteric font of information is only part of his undeniable charm. You're equally liable to find out the best way to prepare lasagna as you are to learn about Salvador Dali paintings after talking to Al for a few minutes. His timely and consistent assistance with the family computer over the years has elevated his stature in this household practically to sainthood (Al, I was wondering if you could come over...)

Ever patient, ever helpful, Al is a man I can always count on, no matter how wacky the adventure. Whether to lend a hand moving furniture, providing moral support as I start cleaning the house at 3AM the morning before a Christmas Party, or just to drop by to cheer me up over a couple of slices of "fresh Mozzarella," Al will always be there for me. Last year, Albert did me the honor of asking me to be one of his Best Men at his wedding, and so it now my honor to have him stand up with me this August at my own. His sweetheart of a wife, Michelle, has also grown to be one of Ally and my dearest friends. I have no doubt that Al and Michelle will be a special part of Ally and my life for many, many years to come. We love you guys!

Wedding Party Profiles 2: Christine & Jim

A Picture Tells a Thousand Words...

But Are You Sure You Want to Hear this Story?

Lifelong Friend, Loyal Confidant, Boston Red Sox Fan... well, two out of three ain't bad. But the world-travelling Christine Marchese has been one of Ally's dearest friends since they were debating who was hotter - Jordan Knight or Joey McIntyre. Every great relationship puts their own unique stamp on their friend, and this could not be truer in Christine's case. Not only did she grow up with Ally, maintaining their bond steadily from grade school, to high school at St. Mary's, and even into the college years, but she indirectly provided Ally with the inspiration that lead to she and I meeting in Ireland. If not for Christine, this wedding may have never taken place... or another lucky guy would be wearing the tuxedo on August 5th.

Christine's taste for travel flourished during her high school days, as she joined Ally and Jenna on exciting trips to Europe. During college, her wanderlust led her to a semester studying abroad. Returning to New York, she regaled Ally and her friends with tales of her thrilling experiences across the Atlantic. Well, after hearing what Christine got to do, Ally took a look at St. John's University in exotic Jamaica, Queens, and resolved, "If I do anything while I'm in college, I'm going to study abroad, too!"

And with that daring declaration, Ally set aside her fears and reservations of living thousands of miles from home and began the process to attend the National University of Ireland in Galway during the Spring Semester of 1999. Which just so happened to be when I was going to do the exact same thing! Destiny is an amazing force, and these series of coincidences and inspirations have only contributed to banish such doubts about its existence from my mind. So, Christine, I thank you with all my heart!

And certainly for that, I can forgive you for the Red Sox thing. I suppose.

After Baking Our Irish Skin All Day at Jim's Graduation,
This Was the Best Visual Comedy We Could Come Up With.

In a paltry little blurb it's pretty hard to sum up my friendship with Jim. Having put up with me for nearly twelve years, I can certainly say that the lad is resilient. Upon describing his character, I would inevitably focus on hyperbole, but that's just how big a person he looms in my eyes. A great man, a dear friend. I'm honored to have him stand by me on the day of the wedding. If Jim's reading this, "I'm sorry pal, but you're just going to have to cope with all this treacly sentiment (you won't admit it, but I know you love it!)... sadly you won't be at the rehearsal dinner so when can I embarrass you by wearing my heart on my sleeve, huh?"

To explain our bond would be similarly hard to quantify, but I'll try my best with this example: Over the course of a couple of cold beers, our four-hour conversation will typically span globo-politics, recitation of obscure movie quotes, Dennis Miller-esque observations of the world, in-depth discussion of heavy metal lyrics, and Greek Mythology. Is it any wonder why I love this guy so much?

Talk to Jim for five minutes and a couple of things will be readily apparent - the guy's not afraid to talk, and he's in the United States Navy. He's certainly not afraid to sprinkle some military jargon to spice up casual conversation. Ask him about it, and no doubt, he'll downplay what he does, but flying airplanes off aircraft carriers, spending months at sea, and serving our country are just a few of the things that make Jim the special person that he is.

Unfortunately, by virtue of his vocation, Jim doesn't get a lot of free time and is often required to spend his days in picturesque locales like Pensacola, Florida; Seattle, Washington; and Baghdad, Iraq. However, he was able to pull all sorts of strings, cords, and pulleys to finagle a brief cross-country trip for the wedding. A more loyal friend I could not ask for, and a more honorable man I do not know. And from what else I know, he plays a mean guitar, is an Eagle Scout, and enjoys long walks on the beach.

Fun Fact: Jim Gets Weirded Out by Roving Bands of Street Mimes

Our Celebrant: Fr. James C. Williams

Ally and I would like to officially introduce
Fr. James Charles Williams

as our wedding mass celebrant!

Chaminade High School's motto is, "Fortes in Unitate." It's a latin phrase that translates as "Strength in Unity." So I think it's especially wonderful that the president of Chaminade would be our celebrant for our own union. We now officially have a priest, and Ally and I couldn't be happier! Fr. James and I go back well over ten years, since he was my teacher at Chaminade High School. Back then, I was just a shy freshman, and he was my 2nd period Religion Teacher, "Brother James." I hope this profile can give him proper justice.

Father James is so much more than simply a teacher to me. First of all, he's an awesome teacher. Let's get that straight! But he is also a mentor and a friend. Since that first day of class, sitting in the second row, this charismatic young teacher made a profound impact on me. I still remember sitting there, spellbound by this tall man with an everpresent grin crack jokes and tell stories. He held the room's attention so effortlessly. I wanted to be just like him.

He made the Bible exciting to a bunch of Long Island boys. And that's not always so easy. Not every student in the class was like me, who had a Mom who taught CCD or a former Marist Brother for a Dad. We had guys of every stripe and personality in that class, and he charmed them all. Busting chops, doing impressions, making funny pictures to illustrate a point (who could forget "Fang" or "Abdul the Camule"?)... he was a master teacher at only 24 years of age.

Hailing from Queens Village, and graduating in 1987, James Williams joined the Marianist Order as a Brother. Marianist Brothers make vows similar to priests, with the special vocation of being teachers. In addition to teaching religion, he also taught math, and served as a guidance counselor and as head moderator for the school yearbook. I often joked about how the Yearbook staff wasn't necessarily staffed by kids particularly interested in making a yearbook, but rather kids who just wanted to hang out with Bro. James. The same would hold true for his co-moderator and best friend, Bro. Peter Heiskell.

Bro. James and Bro. Peter had taken over the struggling school yearbook, Crimson and Gold, about two years prior to my arrival at Chaminade. Though inexperienced, they brought enthusiasm to the previously sub-par annual. The two introduced new computer technology and stylish layout design with a lot of guidance from Jacqui Bazin, a regional rep from Jostens (a yearbook manufacturing company). Within only a few short years, Crimson and Gold was recognized for excellence on a national level, and has remained so, ever since. Painfully shy, I didn't summon up enough confidence to walk into that glorified broom closet, the Yearbook Office, until my sophomore year. Always crammed with kids, filled with music and laughter, it was intimdating for me to just to walk in. But upon entering, my high school experience would never be the same.

I must have made in impression on Fr. James, too, because he promoted me immediately to assistant underclass editor. That gesture of encouragement locked me into yearbook permanently. Through yearbook, I made some of my best friends at Chaminade; Jim Grant, Brian Craine, Albert Lee, and Michael Gordon-Tennant. Later that Spring, Brother James invited me to join Parish Religious Education Program (PREP), a special club of students individually invited to teach religion classes at nearby parishes. In lieu of a 9th period study hall in the cafeteria, I would spend the last period in a classroom with Bro. James and about a dozen juniors and seniors, developing lesson plans for our weekly classes. I was thrilled!

However, at a special yearbook meeting towards the end of August preceding my Junior year, I was crushed when Bro. James made an announcement that he would not be as involved at school because he was entering the seminary. Because of the tremendous study involved in becoming a priest, he wouldn't have adequate time to teach or moderate any clubs.

Despite his limited official involvement at school, he still lived in residence there, and often dropped by the yearbook office to say, "Hi," or harass Bro. Peter. Bro. James also remained active with the Chaminade retreats at the Marianist retreat house in Muttontown. Michael Gordon-Tennant, Brian Craine and I often joined Bro. James as the retreat cooks, staying in the "Servant's Quarters" (which was a lot more fun than it sounds like!) As cooks our only responsibilities were to prepare the food (chicken and rice Friday night, and pasta Saturday night... always!) and to (relatively) stay out of trouble. Night-long monopoly marathons and oreo cookie raids remain some of my fondest memories of high school, nauseatingly wholesome though they may be. When it finally came time for me to graduate in 1997, I had the distinction of being one of the few grads to have Bro. James and Bro. Peter attend their graduation party.

During my freshman year at St. John's, Bro. James relocated to Kellenberg High School (Chaminade's sister school) to complete his seminary studies. It was at Kellenberg that my relationship to Bro. James would take on another significant facet. For several months, I would meet with him to discern my own call to a religious vocation. At 18 years of age, I was at a spiritual crossroads and unsure of God's plan for me. Bro. James took time out of his busy schedule to talk to me about what path I should take in life. And while I ultimately decided that my religious vocation lay in married life (this is a wedding blog, after all!), our weekly chats and his peaceful reassurances made all the difference in my discernment process. The following summer, "Brother James" became "Father James." Not that anyone who was ever his student at Chaminade ever gets that right. You'll still hear people address him as "Bru-Father James." Soon after Chris Anskat and I attended his first mass, said at his old parish of Our Lady of Lourdes in Queens Village, Father James became president of Chaminade High School. Enthusiastic, charismatic, deeply spiritual, and truly talented, Fr. James is a natural for the job. Since then, I've been able to see Fr. James from time-to-time, usually at Christmas Midnight Mass, alumni funcions, and at all those Chaminade plays my sister, Katie, starred in. (Katie Crimmins is still the most famous Crimmins to ever walk through the halls of Chaminade, in my estimation!)

When Ally and I became engaged, there was one priest I really wanted up on that altar with us, to do the honors. But knowing how busy the president of Chaminade is, I asked Fr. James fully expecting him to be unavailable on our wedding day. So when he gave me the "OK," you can imagine how thrilled I was! It is with our deepest gratitude and greatest joy that Ally and I introduce Father James Charles Williams S.M.: priest, president, teacher, mentor, and most especially, dear friend.

At the end of every one of his classes, he'd send us off with his signature blessing, so I think it's fitting to end this profile with it:
"God Loves Ya, Have a Great Day, Go Gettem' Ay!"

Wedding Party Profiles 1: Kat and Chris

Kat with her husband, Andrew

When I sent out an e-mail to all the members in the wedding party, asking them to share some photos and possibly a short message for this blog, there was one person I knew I could count on to respond to the request with her patented enthusiasm and wry sense of humor. No matter what kind of bizarre project or offbeat activity I cook up, I can always rely on Kat to share her energy, her talent, and her infectious fervor! Here's what Kat had to say:

Kathrine - A Bridesmaid's Two Cents!
It is nothing short of an honor to be a part of the Ally-Tom Wedding. So many thoughts, so many memories, and a specific assignment to write a short commentary about the wedding. Operative word here- Short- so here goes! (Desperate measures, desperate grammatical choices)

Ally is a kind-hearted, sensitive and caring friend throughout. There was never a time when profound advice or a great ear to listen to my long-winded conversations waned. Much valued: all the memories we shared and the relationship we have today. She is one of the most genuine people I have ever known. Also, she is both my cure for anxiety and the cause. Although she has such a calming presence, her love of physical challenges (ie. mountain biking and rock scrambling) keeps me alive and scared.

Likewise, Tom shares many of Ally's strengths. Laughter and positive energy are always part of the equation when we all hang out. His efforts to create unique parties and team-oriented activities are much appreciated. ( ie. The Minions of Al, a funny name for a team, but also a great vocabulary lesson on how to use 'minion' in everyday life.) Nothing less than 110 percent is given in all that he does, which is why he is such a fantastic partner for Ally. This may sound like I am advertising the Ally-Tom wedding to the general public. However, in this day and age, it is a rarity to attend a wedding and truly believe that the couple will live happily together. And once you find that couple, let's cry it out on the internet- for true love exists!!! With certainty, Ally and Tom are soul mates meant to be. You two kids will be beyond fine. A true cause to celebrate!!! (Wow- Now we know this middle school English teacher is ready to party. Ending with a fragment. Wild times on the horizon! )

I think it's a safe bet that "wild times are on the horizon." When Kat is involved, there's never a dull moment!

Ally, Jenna, and Kat take a breather from the belly dancing
at Jenna's Bachelorette Party last year.

Chris: He's so money, he doesn't even know it.

Groomsman Chris and I have been close friends since high school at Chaminade. Earlier on, he and I knew each other mainly through mutual friends. We ran in different circles. He was on the wrestling team, ran the theater stage tech service, organized school dances, and participated in various other service clubs. I was an editor for the school yearbook and a member of PREP for students interested in teaching. We probably would have remained only friendly acquaintances had it not been two formative experiences. The first was my ill-advised attempt to court one of the actresses in the school play. The second was my quoting an hysterical Simpsons monologue that I had memorized verbatim. Since Chris was in charge of the theater stage techs, he and I would talk and joke around when I wasn't trying to chat up the girl. What I immediately liked about Chris was how he'd almost go into convulsive fits of laughter when I re-enacted an entire scene from the Simpsons. My specialty was performing the "Meat and You: Partners in Freedom" monologue, complete with sound effects and hand gestures. Chris often would request it, with the eventual result being my sending him into a fit of laughter, rolling around on the hallway floor. Ultimately, Chris and I would stay great friends, while the actress and I went our separate ways after six months.
During our college years, Chris dormed at Fordham University, while I commuted to St. John's University. Fortunately, our schools' close proximity to each other allowed for frequent visits on weekends, mainly for catching episodes of Mr. Show or watching Cable Guyfor the millionth time, along with the inevitable trip to the nearby 7-11. Not only did Chris grow to be one of my best friends, but he became such a frequent visitor to my home that my parents have come to refer to him as "their third son." Over the years, Chris and I have shared too many great times to recall on a simple blog. Rock concerts, parties, and epic roadtrips punctuated our carefree college days. There was never a scheme too hare-brained, that Chris wouldn't join me in (even if only to keep an eye out for me). When I studied in Ireland for a semester, Chris came to visit during his spring break, rendezvousing on the "Ha' Penny Bridge" over the River Liffey in Dublin. Together, we wandered the crowded streets of the Irish capital on St. Patrick's Day, encountering man-eating public lavatories, avoiding fist-fights in fast food joints, and testing the limits of the local low tide (it made sense at the time). While in Galway, Chris would be one of the first of my friends to meet Alison. It's fitting that he would now play such a significant part in our wedding.

After surviving the fires and filth of Woodstock '99 together, Chris and I would later graduate from our respective colleges and embark on our careers. Chris is now a police officer in Suffolk County, New York. One might find it incongruous for my partner in so many wacky adventures to choose such a vocation in life. However, in addition to being a great pal who brings his unique mixture of humor and heart into all that he does, Chris is man who holds service, responsibility, and volunteering in high regard. While on vacation from police work, he even volunteers at a summer camp for economically and socially disadvantaged children in Mississippi!

So at the wedding, if you hear some booming, infectious laughter... that'll be Chris. And if you see a big white guy going nuts on the dancefloor... that'll be Chris. And if you see some galoot riding on my back? That'll definitely be Chris!

Chris is a steadfast and loyal friend. And Ally and I are truly and deeply honored to have him share this day with us. Thanks for everything, buddy!

"The Banditry Only Gets Better!"

Meet the Wedding Party!

Welcome back to Wedded Blitz. After about three months, I thought it was the right time for an update.

Ally and I have been quite busy with wedding preparations since October. And I would be remiss if I didn't attribute our excellent progress to my wife-to-be's persistence, tenacity, and excellent organizational skills. So far, we have booked a church, reception hall, photographer, DJ, and honeymoon cruise. Also, Ally has already purchased her wedding gown, and has chosen a bridesmaid dress design (and her bridesmaids and Maid of Honor have already been fitted! She's good, I tell you!)

Our family and friends mean a great deal to Ally and me, and we've endeavored to include as many as we can in our wedding day celebration. As our plans continue to take shape, we'll be looking to more of our family and friends for participation. However, at this time, and with great pleasure, Ally and I would like to introduce our wedding party.

Maid of Honor:
Ally's sister, Jenna

Bridesmaids:
My sisters Katie, Mary, and Meggie
Ally's friends Andrea, Kat, and Christine

Best Man:
My brother, Mike

Groomsmen:
Ally's brother, Mike
My cousin, Mike
My friends Jay, Chris, Al, and Jim

Katie, Meggie, Mary, and Ally enjoying some ice cream in the autumn of 1999

Ally, Me, Kat, Andrea, Jay, and Jenna after conquering the Coldspring Trail this past summer, 2005.

Me, Jim, and Chris on the annual Cigar Walk, back in 2002

My brother, Mike; Me; and my cousin, Mike, at their graduation from Chaminade in 1998.

Me, Chris, and Al together at our annual summer barbecue in 2005.

Ally, Jenna, and Christine at Andrea's wedding last summer in '05.

Me, Jay, and Ally's brother, Mike at Jenna and Jay's wedding last July '05.

In the weeks to come, Ally and I will be casting the spotlight on each person in our wedding party, sharing funny anecdotes and clever insights. See you soon!