Officiant
Maddie met Matt while waiting (overnight) in the pit line for a Dave Matthews Band concert in Hartford, Connecticut, during the summer of 2013. When Maddie moved to New York City, Matt, who lived a short drive from Connecticut and also aspired to live in the city one day, officially met Jake. They, too, became best buds, thanks to Game of Thrones Sundays and various other 20-something shenanigans. Currently, Matt works with Maddie at Suzy, and along with his amazing wife Casey, he lives just two floors below Maddie and Jake on the Upper East Side. Having Matt officiate their wedding is a true honor, and his role goes beyond the script; he has been a constant source of support, laughter, and so much more throughout the couple's journey together. Likes: Bravo, cold brew, jam bands Dislikes: hot coffee
Maid of Honor
Maddie and Bridget met in Fall 2011 during their freshman year at Wake Forest. Bridget, eager to escape her unorthodox roommate, generously gave Maddie, who also happened to have a unique roommate, an extra doorstop... Bridget does not remember this happening. However, since then, minus Bridget's brief stint in Chicago from 2015 to 2017, they've been practically inseparable (to Bridget, the introvert's dismay). Living together from 2017-2020, Maddie and Bridget's bond only deepened. Some highlights of their relationship include morning walks in Central Park with Casey Croteau, watching the One Direction movie once a quarter, and even dabbling in the occasional Rumble boxing class. Through thick and thin, Maddie and Bridget have remained besties, making Bridget the perfect choice for the MOH role. Likes: punk concerts, hot girl walks, fighting the good fight against toxic masculinity Dislikes: historical fiction
Best Man
Mac isn't just Jake's brother; he's also one of his best buds. Their story began on June 13th, 1996, at the hospital in Zanesville, OH, where Jake and Mac first crossed paths and established a bond that has withstood the test of time. As co-inventors of Stairball, a game with rules that are both fascinating and unique (feel free to ask one of them to explain), Jake and Mac shared a childhood bedroom for an impressive 16 years. Their close-knit relationship is defined by a shared love for video games and a knack for giving their mom a hard time, always in the most playful and fun way. Likes: bread rolls, playing guitar, Pokémon Dislikes: Team Rocket
Groomsman
Jake met Nick in 2011 during their freshman year at MIT, where they became more than just friends – they became fraternity brothers through DKE. The bond they forged in those early college days only deepened when Nick became Jake's first roommate in NYC. Their 'bro-ness' reached new heights when they lived together in FiDi for a remarkable 3.5 years. Nick brings not only memories of college adventures and city living but also a deep connection that adds an extra layer of joy to this special occasion. Likes: How I Met Your Mother, Halo, mini Australian shepherds Dislikes: Throwing away old leftovers
Groomsman
Luke is more than just Maddie's older brother; he and Jake share a special bond that developed over the years, starting way back when Maddie and Jake first started "dating" in the 8th grade. Although the exact moment of Jake and Luke's introduction is a bit hazy, it likely took place during the couple's middle school days. Despite Luke being Maddie's "cool older brother," he and Jake consistently found time to connect over shared interests, especially their love for Halo and/or Call of Duty while growing up in Zanesville, Ohio. Likes: gummy bears, golfing, THE Ohio State Buckeyes Dislikes: ❌ichigan
Bridesmaid
Chamaine and her fraternal twin, Chanelle, are Maddie's oldest and dearest friends. They met in preschool and continued to be in almost every class together until college. Chamaine and Maddie were always the 'Tomboys' of their friend group, breaking ankles on the basketball court, skateboarding, and playing Call of Duty. Chamaine has single-handedly kept Chanelle and Maddie out of trouble too many times to count, and for that, they are forever grateful. Likes: binging Netflix shows, corgis, Pepsi (never Coke) Dislikes: movie musicals
Bridesmaid
*For additional context, see Chamaine's section above* Maddie and Chanelle along with Chanelle's fraternal twin Chamaine go way back—like 27 years back. While Chanelle mainly sat out during the video game and skateboarding shenanigans, she and Maddie forged their own special bond. Some memorable moments include cheating on each other in 7th-grade math class, burning multiple pizzas at 2 am, and watching all ten seasons of 'Friends' 27+ times through. Chanelle is undeniably one of Maddie's true ride-or-dies, and, Nel, Maddie thanks you for being there every step of the way—even through her 'unhealthy obsession with Ben Affleck' phase. Likes: cohabitating with her twin, Chamaine, Italian cuisine, hanging in Maddie's childhood kitchen Dislikes: moms saying, “I’m disappointed”
Bridesmaid
Maddie met Casey through her husband, Matt (who also happens to be marrying Jake and Maddie), about 5 years ago in NYC. Although it was a late-blossoming connection, Casey and Maddie now share a friendship for the books, living just two floors apart from each other and with Casey also taking up the role of Maddie's personal beautician. Whether it's their mutual affection for The Boss, Lululemon Scubas, Casey's to-die-for blondies, or a combination of all those things and more, Maddie feels incredibly lucky to have Casey as one of her dearest friends. Likes: New Jersey, espresso martinis, her cozy morning routine Dislikes: the patriarchy
Groomsman
Jake and Maddie's friendship with John began when he started working with Maddie at Suzy - a vibrant market research startup that thrives on company politics. Jake and John often engage in deep conversations about life, love, and happiness, establishing a consistent and cherished aspect of their friendship. John aka Bambino, with his charming personality (and a healthy dose of self-awareness), has seamlessly become an integral part of Jake and Maddie's lives. A few years ago, John introduced Jake to his high school friends, and now, they all play Xbox daily. Maddie has even joined in on the "COD Boyz" fun. As humorously pointed out by Jenni Masterson one day, "John sure does think a lot of John, doesn't he?" Likes: Catan, fantasy/sci-fi novels, sleeping on friends' couches Dislikes: his landlord
Bridesman
Maddie's bond with Ethan began a few years ago through his boyfriend Thomas, and it's been nothing short of wonderful. Their shared love for naps, The Walking Dead, and melting into the couch on Sundays has forged a unique connection. Despite their relatively short time knowing each other, Maddie and Ethan have discovered a common anxiety – the worry that the dogs will be stolen when left alone. This shared concern has only deepened their friendship, making Ethan one of Maddie's dearest friends. Likes: Call of Duty: Warzone, naps, Boston Terriers Dislikes: being away from his dogs
Groomsman
Jake and Ben met in the spring of 2011 during MIT's Campus Preview Weekend, when Ben impersonated Jake at a welcome event, cleverly scoring a free birthday t-shirt. The amusing start to their friendship set the stage for the good times that followed. In 2012, Ben and his Dad took Jake under their wing and taught him how to ski. No matter the miles between them, they stay close, bonding over things like Magic the Gathering, DnD, and all sorts of nerdy things. Likes: Magic the Gathering, martial arts, Van Life Dislikes: Being Jake's Roommate (he's messy)
Groomsman
Jake and Thomas met in 2018 through Xbox, thanks to our officiant and dear friend Matt Croteau. Although Thomas resides in Connecticut with his wonderful companion Ethan, distance hasn't dimmed the light of their friendship, as the couple frequently visits each other in West Hartford and NYC. Thomas, ever the joy-bringer, has introduced Jake and Maddie to the delights of Boston Terriers, tasty chillable red wine, and the unexpected thrill of Mezcal shots (much to their dismay). Beyond shared interests, Thomas' pups, Hunter and Hazel, have formed an inseparable friendship with Pepper, creating their own special canine alliance. Likes: F1, ordering shots for everyone when it's time to go home, wine Dislikes: food delivery when we could walk
Groomsman
Jake and John met in 2011 during MIT's Campus Preview Weekend - their friendship deepened on the football field, spending two exhilarating years playing across the ball from each other. Beyond the game, their camaraderie extended when they became DKE fraternity brothers. A few years after graduation, John moved in with Jake and Nick Anaya allowing their friendship together to grow beyond the already close relationship they shared in school. Likes: reading company financial statements, his daughter, the New York Yankees Dislikes: Incompetence
Bridesmaid
Maddie's friendship with Hannah began at Zanesville High School when Maddie was a sophomore and Hannah was a junior. From the early days of high school adventures to navigating the ups and downs of life, their bond was only strengthened when Hannah introduced Maddie to the world of One Direction. Their shared love of nostalgia, along with the fact that Hannah is also a wonderful friend of Jake, makes Hannah an exceptionally special friend to the couple. Likes: her dog Flora, Niall Horan, sending TikToks through the app Dislikes: Olivia Wilde
Groomsman
Jake met Brent in 2016 when Brent started dating his sister, Jillian. Over the years, Brent has not only become family but also a significant influence in Jake's life. With an immense passion for his interests and the people he cares about most, Brent has introduced Jake to the exciting worlds of soccer, wrestling, and whisky. Furthermore, Maddie particularly enjoys teasing Brent about wrestling, playfully asserting her views on its authenticity. Likes: craft beer, Skyline Chili, the Columbus Crew Dislikes: when Maddie says wrestling is “not real”
Bridesmaid
Jillian holds a special place in this celebration, not just as Jake's sister but also as a dear friend – basically a sister at this point – of Maddie for many years. While the exact moment of their meeting remains a bit fuzzy, it likely occurred during Maddie and Jake's 8th-grade 'dating' phase. Since then, Maddie and Jill have formed a unique bond, sharing a mutual love for reading and indulging in the drama of Grey's Anatomy. Moreover, Jill, along with the entire Masterson family, has warmly embraced Maddie since day one, making her feel like a cherished member of their family. Likes: her son Dean, Gilmore Girls, reading romance novels Dislikes: Not applicable; Jill likes everything and everyone
Groomsman
Jake, Maddie, and Dick's friendship began in 8th grade in Mrs. Wahl's Algebra I class at Roosevelt Middle School. The trio quickly became inseparable, spending countless hours at the Country Club pool, playing Xbox, and recording unique 'music' in Dick's basement studio. One particularly memorable experience unfolded during a high school Rock Band competition where Maddie and Dick, showcasing his incredible drumming skills (played backward, no less), had a somewhat controversial outcome (spoiler: Dick and Maddie totally won, and the seniors totally cheated). Dick's influence didn't end there; he moved to NYC before Jake did. When Jake made the move, Dick played a crucial role not only in helping Jake settle in but also in introducing him to an incredible group of friends. Dick will always be one of Jake and Maddie's closest friends. Likes: karaokeing to Levels by Avicii, margaritas, playing drums Dislikes: when the Rock Band drums are disconnected
Bridesmaid
As Maddie's cousin, Sarah shares a bond with Maddie that goes beyond family; being close in age, they navigated the teasing antics of their older brothers, Alex and Luke, and the ever-entertaining Cousin Ben. From festive Christmases at Nana's with the ~real~ Santa Claus to playing with Barbies (despite Maddie's allergy), their childhood was filled with cherished memories. Sarah holds a special place in Maddie's heart for introducing her to the world of country music and the captivating allure of "One Tree Hill." Although miles apart – with Maddie in NYC and Sarah in Columbus, OH – their bond remains unbreakable. Likes: tomatoes, buffalo chicken dip, Toby Keith's "I Wanna Talk About Me" Dislikes: Maddie being allergic to Barbies
Bridesmaid
Maddie met Covington their freshman year at Wake Forest when her curiosity was piqued by the name "Sarah Paulsen" on Covington's South Hall dorm door. Little did Maddie know she actually went by "Covington" (which was totally normal). From that moment on, Cov became an integral part of Maddie's college experience and beyond. They lived together every year throughout college, including a memorable trip studying abroad to Venice, Italy. Covington played a crucial role in helping Maddie navigate their international adventure, ensuring she returned home safe and sound – an act of kindness Maddie is forever grateful for. From lively lawn parties at One Direction and Mumford & Sons concerts to spontaneous yet frequent 2 am trips to Cookout, Covington will always be one of Maddie's dearest friends, no matter what. Likes: her cat Basil, horses, Taylor Swift (aka Mother) Dislikes: greens
Groomsman
Aaron is not just one of Jake's groomsmen but also his brother-in-law. Known affectionately as 'Boss AP,' Aaron is married to Jake's sister, Emily. The story of Jake and AP's friendship unfolds in 2016 at Terry's Tavern, where they first crossed paths. That same night, they shared some 'kinda good scotch' on Paul and Jenni's back patio. Their connection deepened when Aaron visited NYC for his birthday shortly after that initial meeting. Since then, Boss AP has made frequent visits to the big city to stay in touch with his hardworking 'employees.' Beyond familial ties, Maddie and AP also share a special affection for a band that will remain unnamed, attending an unreasonable number of their concerts each summer, while Jake and Emily 'castaway' into dinner and drinks at whatever resort Maddie and Aaron have dragged them to that weekend. Likes: Bubbles, ranch, Rooster's Dislikes: sleepy time
Bridesmaid
Like Jake's other sister Jillian, Maddie most likely met Emily during her and Jake's middle school years. Emily is not just Jake's oldest sister but also a great friend to Maddie – and at this point, she's practically a sister too. In addition to being a constant source of support, Emily has played the roles of confidante and, at times, Maddie's therapist, for which Maddie is forever grateful for Emily's wise counsel. Their adventures extend beyond wedding preparations, as Maddie and Emily frequently plan trips together with Jake and Emily's husband, AP – special shoutout to their annual trip to The Breakers in Palm Beach. Likes: egg drop soup, Great Danes, Orange Theory Dislikes: her current living room couch
Bridesmaid
Maddie and Caroline initially crossed paths at Wake Forest through their large circle of friends. However, it wasn't until they both relocated to NYC and lived together for two years in the West Village that their friendship deepened as they bonded over mid-twenties shenanigans. Their shared affection for John Mayer, smooshed-faced dogs, and Equinox undoubtedly played a role in strengthening their connection. Maddie is so lucky to now call Caroline one of her dearest friends. Likes: 2 pm brunch, spin classes, Titanic (but only the good parts) Dislikes: texting
Groomsman
Jake and Fletcher's friendship traces back to the 6th grade at Westview Elementary when Jake moved schools. From the moment they met, Fletcher became an immediate friend, giving Jake the lay of the land at the public, non-Catholic school in town. Their bond deepened as they formed a pact to always share suggestions for any new nerdy books, TV shows, or movies that caught their interest. Additionally, Maddie met Fletcher during their Kindergarten year, and throughout their elementary years, they bonded over Pokemon Snap, class projects, and Y-City baseball. Fletch will always hold a special place in the couple's hearts; their friendships are nothing short of a testament to the enduring power of childhood connections. Likes: rock music sans banjo, puzzle games, the Cleveland Browns Dislikes: piccolo solos
Pup of Honor
For those who aren't aware, Pepper is the 4-year-old French Bulldog of Maddie and Jake, aka their child. Although Pepper will not be attending the wedding, she will be celebrating with everyone in spirit (while napping). Likes: tennis balls, vomiting at inopportune times, sleeping in the bed Dislikes: kisses, getting her nails clipped, being left alone for more than one minute