GENERAL

Couple's Name: Callie Philippi and Jason Atanasoff

Wedding Date: March 24, 2012

Wedding Location: St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Kenosha

ABOUT THE COUPLE

How they met: Callie moved to Wisconsin to work at Prairie School and her boss introduced her to Jason on her first day. They went on their first date one month later.

How he proposed: The proposal took place right after Christmas. Jason had a blanket laid out in the living room, and a huge bag stood in the middle. Callie opened the bag to find an assortment of cleaning and cooking items. When she asked him about the gifts, he jokingly said they were things to help her become a good wife. Then he got down on one knee and proposed with a stunning ring.

Bride's occupation: Event coordinator, Prairie School, Racine

Groom's occupation: Physical education teacher, Prairie School, Racine

THE CEREMONY

 The ceremony: Jason's mother is Filipino, so a special unity cord and veil presentation was incorporated into the traditional ceremony.

The gown: A Wtoo design, featuring ivory, silky taffeta and organza and beaded flower embellishments. The full trumpet skirt led to a beautiful chapel train.

The bouquet: A nosegay of white garden roses, tree ivy and peacock feathers, accented with turquoise ribbon.

The theme: Sports, with accent colors of various shades of green, ivory and turquoise.

THE WEDDING PARTY

Maid of honor: Casey Chapman

Bridesmaids: Courtney Spayd, Brooke Obenauf, Jessica White, Erika Hughes, Jennie Payes and Kristin Atanasoff

Best man: Gil Atanasoff

Groomsmen: Ben Bruno, Tommy Obenauf, Tony Buyniski, John Seiber, Scott Roehl and Jason Eickmeyer

THE RECEPTION

Number of guests: 250

The reception: University of Wisconsin-Parkside Student Center Ballroom.

The cake: The couple opted for a dessert bar rather than the traditional wedding cake, which featured white chocolate mousse, blondies and mini red velvet cupcakes.

First song: “Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not” by Thompson Square.

The menu: Chicken marsala, beef tenderloin, roasted vegetables and a create-your-own mashed potatoes station.

What made the day unique: They are huge sports fans, so they tried to incorporate sports into several aspects of their wedding. The place cards were felt pennants, with their names and “logo,” and the favors were golf tees. Another unique touch was the late-night food station that featured mini grilled cheese sandwiches and cheese popcorn.

Most touching moment of the day: Jason had secretly videotaped the phone call to Callie’s Dad asking for her hand in marriage, and the actual proposal. A friend turned the footage into a short movie that played during the reception.

Honeymoon destination: Playa del Carmen, Mexico