Our Story Nuptial Mass Registry RSVP

Claire Schrader

&

Sjaak van der Aalst

Welcome!

Claire and Sjaak joyfully invite you to share in the celebration of their union in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony.

Below, you will find all details about the ceremony, reception, and more. We're grateful for your presence as we embark on this great lifelong adventure together.

A Peek Into Our Story

Our journey began in Germany in 2021 when Claire studied abroad at Sjaak's high school in Eschweiler. We were classmates, seatmates, and soon — inseparable friends.

What started as shared laughter in religion class grew into a friendship rooted in faith, discovery, and wonder. We spent weekends hiking, going to Mass together, and sharing long conversations over coffee.

Through time, letters, and thousands of miles, our story has unfolded beautifully — guided by God's providence and deepened through the love of family, adventure, and prayer.

"Ubi amor, ibi oculus."

Moments Through the Years

Our first date in Cologne
Our first date in Cologne.
May 2022
Sjaak's first time in the US
Sjaak's first time ever in the US.
June 2023
Celebrating the 4th of July
Celebrating the 4th of July.
July 2023
Our Abiprom
Our "Abiprom", celebrating Sjaak's Abitur and Claire's high school graduation.
July 2023
Our families meeting
Our families meeting up for the first time.
December 2024
Playing detective
007.
March 2024
Visiting Seattle
Visiting Seattle around Christmas time.
December 2024
The proposal
Sjaak proposes to Claire and hands her his hand-carved wooden clogs.
June 2025

Nuptial Mass

July 25, 2026 | 10 am

St. Mary Catholic Church

575 E College St

Mount Angel, OR 97362

USA

Please arrive 15 minutes early. There's a parking lot next to the church.

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Reception

July 26, 2026 | 1 pm

Sorella

526 NW Coast St, Apt C

Newport, OR 97365

USA

Link to menu.

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Commonly Asked Questions

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For the Church, please dress modestly (e.g., covered shoulders).

Yes! Make sure to mention it in the RSVP if applicable.

As there are not many options in the Mt Angel/Silverton area, Salem has some options.

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Your presence is truly the best gift we could ask for.

But if you feel called to give a little something, we've put together a small registry.
Click the link below to reach the gift registry.

Visit our gift registry

Please RSVP by June 1st, 2026