Michelle & Benny
Wedding Party
Catherine Tomazi
Maid of Honor
Michelle's first impression of Catherine was the quiet girl in the broken foot boot during freshman year at Miami University. Oh, how quickly that changed. Their friendship is still going strong to this day where they bond over videogames, theme parks, good-natured ribbing of their friends, and COPIOUS amounts of sarcasm. Catherine has amazing leadership skills and the ability to make the most delicious cocktails, as well as the ability to make Michelle snort-laugh.
Elise Williams
Bridesmaid
Elise is the smartest woman Michelle has ever had the pleasure to know. She has the kindest heart and always has an ear for a fun story or a strong shoulder for support. Michelle's favorite memories of Elise span from their days at Miami University to all the fun parties they throw as adults, especially Michelle's 21st (thrown in conjunction with Elises 22nd!) Michelle and Elise can talk for hours about philosophy, how teaching can be improved in universities, and lighter topics too (we swear!).
KK Baggerly
Bridesmaid
Michelle never had a sister growing up, but is thrilled to be gaining one in KK. Some favorite memories include when KK made Benny's birthday cake, but he unknowingly helped decorate it; and all of the Christmases they have spent together rocking out to 80's hair-bands. Benny is blessed to have his sister stand by him on his special day, just as she has supported him through all his big events. Love you, KK!
Tori Tarr
Bridesmaid
Michelle's freshman year was forever changed when there was a knock at her door, with a happy-go-lucky red-head asking, "Do you wanna watch Thor with me?" Since then, Tori and Michelle have been to just about every new superhero movie together, argued over the merits of Marvel vs DC, and rocked out to each other's favorite bands until they were deaf. Michelle has loved going on trips with Tori and her fam, with being the 2nd most often chosen when playing the "guess who is adopted?" game with Tori's parents and their friends.
Ian George
Best Man
Ian George is quite literally the reason we are gathering for this event! After seeing Michelle and Benny flirt around each other for an evening, he grabbed them both by the collar (he's tall) and told them to just date already! Ian has been Benny's best friend for over 14 years and has quickly found his way into Michelle's circle as well. Benny's best memories of Ian are too many to count at this point, but we'll always have Ohio University (when they were roommates).
Nate Pappenhagen
Groomsman
Nate Pappenhagen really should be on the bride's side (she thinks so too), but for balance, he's happy to stand on Benny's side. Nate is literally the reason that these two met! After Michelle was unable to act in Pirates of Penzance, Nate convinced her to do work with spotlight, which is where she met Benny who worked sound. Nate and Michelle have been best friends for over 23 years (since the first day of kindergarten) and he has far too many embarrassing stories of her.
Tony Corbo
Groomsman
Tony and Benny have been friends since middle school in a path that Benny has described as a "slow burn". The two started out as friends of friends, only to realize they had much in common (although Tony was on the football team) Both were into anime and video games, and the friendship developed from there. Tony has always been a good friend and a reliable person, and Benny will forever be grateful to him for all the adventures he has brought into his life.
CJ Langmack
Groomsman
CJ has been bonking around Benny and Michelle's lives for over 10 years, though Michelle and him became inseparable in middle school over 16 years ago. From shredding on the guitar in either of his heavy metal bands (please check out Olathia and DeadIron!), or just goofing around over boardgames and mead, CJ has a heart of gold and a crazy streak a mile wide. Michelle and Benny are thrilled to have him stand with us on this special day.