Melissa & Carlos
Meet Our Families
Frances Spiegel
Matron of Honor
Last year when we eloped at City Hall, we were honored to have our Grandma Frannie as our Matron of Honor. Grammy packed her bags and got on a plane to NYC for her eldest grandchild. My Gammy and I have always had a close relationship. She has always been cool and unique and really walked to the beat of her own drum. We spent many summers crafting and creating. I also have her to thank for my love of the Golden Girls (ask me about my friendship with Rue McClanahan). When she met Carlos, she loved him from the start. So did Grandpa Howie. I am so happy that Carlos has had the chance to meet and get to know two very special people in my life and that one of them was able to be an integral part of our special day. She is now happily staying put in Florida with her dog-baby Gwynnie.
Michael Bertoncini
Best Man
Mikey B! Brother, friend, confidante. You'd be hard pressed to find someone more caring in times of need. He is loyal, hardworking and (most importantly) a dreamer. His tenacity and persistence are hard to find in a world of immediacy. My brother is the one person who always understands me. I love, appreciate and admire him immensely. Carlos has been so excited to have him in his life (although, these two together are a formidable force!). We are so grateful he was there to play a key part in such an important day for us. Thank you!
Susan and Edwin Bertoncini
Bride's Parents
Our parents, Susan and Edwin, were the only other people there (I told you we kept our circle small). Although they had no formal title, their presence was crucial. Mom and Dad have embraced Carlos as their own from the start and he them. Carlos and Dad love sitting on the couch, watching TV and eating snacks. Carlos calls himself Dad's "Capo di Tutti Capi". Mom and Carlos are very similar in a lot of ways which is probably why this all works! Thank you both for being there not just on our wedding day but every day!
Ilba Gutierrez
Mother of the Groom
Carlos's mom is the best of the best. She is a single mom of two who gave both of her sons a college education while working full time as a registered nurse in Colombia. She couldn't be with us last year due to us eloping and her needing a visa BUT she will be with us this year! We are so happy that she is going to get to meet all of our friends and family. Last June, Carlos and I went to Colombia to visit his family. We had a great time and I really enjoyed getting to meet his grandma, aunts, uncles and my brother Jesus. Mama Grande (as we call her) is an amazing chef (rumor has it she is making goodies for the party!). Her coco rice is to die for. She is also one of the kindest and most giving people I have ever met. Love you Mama Grande!
Abuelita
Carlos' Grandma!
Abuelita is 94 years young. She has a bustling house filled with kids, grandkids and great-grandkids along with an extensive garden and a bunch of turtles!