Eddie & Matt
Wedding Party
Marlynda Dixon
Matron of Honor
Marlynda, or Mer for short, has been Matt's rock for most of their lives. In High School, she drove a baby blue Ford Tempo, and that tank was the home base for most of their shenanigans. Together they've toured Europe and sung in some of the most beautiful Cathedrals, they've done HS Musicals, and wreaked havoc along the Main Street of Hays, KS; but the most valued times together were on the floor of her bedroom coloring, playing Gin, calling Psychic Hotlines, and figuring out relationships both friend and romantic. Marlynda currently lives in Olathe, KS with her husband, Will, and their two children, Carlie and Matty.
Kimmy Neve
Matron of Honor
Eddie has known Kimmy for the entirety of her 26 years on this Earth; simply owing to the fact that she is his younger sister. Their mutual passions are many, but not limited to musical theatre, South Park, Disney, and Starbucks coffee. Despite some of the tricks that he (and their older sister, Tracy) used to play on Kimmy, the two are kindred spirits to the very end. Kimmy is currently living in Madison, WI and works there as a labor and delivery nurse. She is also getting married in 2021 to her fiance, Brian. They have one fur-baby named Ollie, who is known for his colorful assortment of bow ties.
Mark Runion
Groomsman
Mark and Matt met in the Mens' Room of the Plymouth (now the Schoenfeld) Theatre with their pants literally down around their ankles. Get your minds out of the gutter; they were changing for work. After talking that first time, it was clear Mark was going to be a close friend; a fact that was cemented a few weeks later at the Opening Night Party for "Bells Are Ringing," where thanks to him, Matt finally got to meet one of his childhood idols, Debbie Gibson. Through the years Mark has been a constant, always there for advice, challenging Matt's opinions, teaching Matt the ways of the world, or simply for a good glass of wine. He has grown beyond being a friend to Matt, he truly is Matt's family. Mark currently resides in Washington, D.C. with his husband, Tyler, and their new puppy Pretzel.
Tracy Neve
Groomswoman
Eddie may have told you that he is able to "take a hit" due to being brought up book-ended by two strong women. Meet Eddie's older sister, Tracy. Tracy lives in Sun Prairie with her partner, Mike, his two children Gavin and Marley, and their child Lincoln. Tracy also has an older daughter, Aurora, who will be giving a reading at the wedding. She is incredibly gifted in crafting garments, blankets, dolls, etc. You may find her incredible creations on Etsy.
Graham Hookham
Groomsman
Do you know that person you don't see on a regular basis, but when you reconnect absolutely zero time has passed? That is Graham. They worked together on Royal Caribbean's Splendor of the Seas where Matt sang in the cast, and Graham was part of the stage crew. During that contract the two of them toured much of the South of France and Rome together by day, and often times drank far too much at night. Never to be left unattended, if you have a moment, ask them about their adventure in Nero's (yes, THAT Nero) Summer Palace in Rome. Since those days on the ship, they have remained the best of friends and he and his partner, David, have become fun vacationing partners. Graham and David live just outside of London.
Chasten Buttigieg
Groomsman
Eddie and Chasten first met when Eddie was going to UW-Eau Claire for his under-graduate degree. Chasten was in the first play that Eddie directed for a group called the UWEC Players. Eddie and Chasten later played opposite each other as boyfriends Louis and Prior in the renowned Tony Kushner play, "Angels in America." Chasten has recently had a life that has taken around the country, keeping him very busy. Despite that, he continues to be an enduring source of support, humor, and friendship.
Noland King
Groomsman
Noland met Matt at Pieces, the bar where Matt hosted karaoke, however their friendship didn't take off for a couple of years later. Since then, Noland has become a dear friend, and the two of them may often be found taking in long meals, a good happy hour, and occasionally, a late night of shenanigans. One of Noland's notable characteristics is his sharp wit; often times sharper than for what Matt is ready. Having said that though, he is the friend everyone should have; encouraging, passionate, supportive, caring, and confident. You won't hear him at the wedding itself, but if you have a chance, buy him a round and ask to hear him sing. His voice is absolutely stunning.
Steph Dvorak
Groomswoman
Eddie and Steph met while they were both attending UW-Eau Claire. Eddie was the stage manager for a show about female astronauts that Steph performed in entitled "Lunacy." It was during this show that Steph first stole Eddie's heart by shaking her booty at the audience (dressed as an alien) to the song "Space Girls." Steph currently lives in Illinois with her husband, Andy, and their three, adorable children.
Robbie Kuehl
Groomsman
Robbie is Matt's middle brother. He is quiet at first, but once you get to know him, be ready for the endless puns and dad jokes. He is quite possibly the kindest, gentlest man Matt knows, and there is absolutely nothing he won't do for the people he loves. Robbie and Matt have been through a great deal together, and Matt is truly honored to have him stand up with him. Robbie lives in Hays, KS with his wife Rebecca, and their children, Lexi, Aiden, and Ryleigh.
Nicole Capozziello
Groomswoman
Nicole and Eddie go way back to grade school at Eagle Point Elementary School in DeForest, WI. They became good friends in high school, during which they got into various shenanigan's in the Deforest and Madison area. Nicole happened to be the first person that Eddie came out to, making her very near and dear to his heart. Nicole currently lives in Buffalo, NY with her boyfriend, David, where she is currently a social worker. She is also incredibly talented in writing and creating podcasts with her nephew, Dominic.
Jamie Kuehl
Groomsman
Jamie is Matt's youngest brother, and the most athletic of the Kuehl boys. He's a strong leader, and a devoted family man. If you're a golfer, you could take a Master Class with Jamie; he truly is a fantastic golfer and inspirational coach. Matt is beyond proud of Jamie and his accomplishments, and is honored to have him standing up with him. Jamie lives in Dodge City, KS with his wife, Kelsey, and their children, Jackson and Jayma.
Jacqi Kirkland
Groomswoman
Eddie and Jacqi's friendship goes all the way back to grade school at Eagle Point Elementary School in DeForest, WI. They remained close friends throughout high school, participating in drama club together and various other activities (Jacqi was one of the Wicked Witches of the West opposite Eddie's Cowardly Lion in their senior year production of The Wizard of Oz). They were known for singing Disney songs as loud as they possibly could while driving around DeForest and Madison as well as showing up to the local Culver's wearing wigs, hand-cuffed to each other and talking in Russian accents (don't ask, it made perfect sense at the time). Jacqi currently lives in New Zealand with her boyfriend, Mike, where she works for the Ministry of Children.
Brian Silva
Groomsman
Brian is who Matt aspires to be when he grows up. Passionate, determined, focused, beyond smart, and inspirational, Brian spends his days advocating and lobbying for underrepresented groups. He served as Executive Director for Marriage Equality USA, and is a huge reason why we can all be here for this wedding. All of this being said, he still makes time for his friends, and if you are lucky enough to be a friend of Brian's, you know you're a part of his family. Matt cherishes this friendship, and considers himself beyond lucky to have Brian standing up and reading for his marriage to Eddie. Brian lives in New York with his husband, Jonathan.
Amy Truckey
Groomswoman
Being one of Eddie's older cousins (on his mother's side), she has known him from the very beginning. Together with their cousin, Sarah, they were known for creating their own music groups in each others' basements inspired by TLC and the Spice Girls. They were also known for getting into a moderate amount of trouble together while camping with their family at EAA in Oshkosh, WI. Amy lives in the Green Bay area with her husband, Mark, and their children Riley, Teegan, and Tanner. Amy works as a Physician's Assistant that specializes in sport's medicine/orthopedics.
Katie Beetham
Groomswoman
Matt's love for Katie knows no bounds. They sang together on Royal Caribbean's Splendor of the Seas, where they also met Graham. Katie and Matt spent a full afternoon totally lost in the Italian countryside, wandering dirt roads among fields and having the slightest idea where they were. Thankfully, Katie speaks French, as did the fine people who lived in this rural area, and we finally found our way to Pompeii. It was a day not to be forgotten, and it was only the tip of the iceberg of adventures they would go on to experience together. It was a true honor to share a stage with Katie each night, and her talent leaves Matt in awe even now. Her voice is perfection, her smile is radiant, and her laugh is infectious. Katie lives in Toronto with her husband Ben.
Sarah Pieper
Groomswoman
Being another one of Eddie's older cousins (on his mother's side), Sarah has known Eddie from the very beginning. Along with their cousin, Amy, Sarah and Eddie were known for spending their childhood in each others' basements starting their own music groups (inspired by TLC and the Spice Girls). The trio were also responsible for a mild amount of chaos whilst camping at EAA in Oshkosh, WI. Sarah lives in Whitewater, WI with her husband, Sam, and their son, Charlie. Sarah is a physician's assistant and works as professor for a nearby university.
Chelsea Lore
Groomswoman
Chelsea is Matt's Ride or Die. They fly together at JetBlue, and she was the gal who accompanied Matt to Chicago where he bough Eddie's engagement ring. She is amazing at what she does every day, and beyond humble about it. Chelsea can be shy and quiet, but if you ever have a chance to sit and chat with her, you will walk away feeling loved and renewed. Matt loves this girl so much, and is so thankful to be her friend and her work husband. Chelsea lives in Neptune, NJ with her husband, Matt, and their son Lucas.
Grace Wilkins
Groomswoman
Eddie and Grace worked together as staff nurses on a psychiatric adolescent inpatient unit at New York Presbyterian Hospital in White Plains, NY. Because they were assigned to the same weekend, they faced many challenges together and realized that their cohesion was uncanny! They quickly became the best of friends, learning that they shared an obsession with Disney. This prompted them to meet up with each other several times at the "happiest place on earth." Grace lives in upstate New York and is currently working on her Doctorate in Nursing Practice in Mental Health.
Nesha Ward
Groomswoman
Nesha is a force of nature. She is driven, boisterous, and she knows how to command a room. Matt and Nesha worked together in the Broadway theatres, and have since developed into each other's chosen family. You will have a chance to hear her sing with Katie at the wedding, and Matt and Eddie promise you, it will be absolutely stunning. Afterward, make sure you're next to her on the dance floor; Matt promises you that you won't regret it. Nesha lives in New York City.
Derek Caruso
Groomsman
Eddie and Derek worked together as staff nurses on a psychiatric adolescent inpatient unit at New York Presbyterian Hospital in White Plains, NY. Both being part of the LGBTQ+ community, they brought a certain degree of flair and fashion to the teenagers on the unit. Derek lives in Brooklyn, NY and continues to work as a staff nurse at NYP. He is also working on his Master's Degree to join Eddie as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Derek is a proud cat-dad of his cat, Shadow, and is responsible for introducing Eddie to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which he missed (somehow) when it first aired YEARS ago.
Hakim Canter-McMillan
Groomsman
Hakim and Matt met working in the Broadway theatres, but didn't truly develop their friendship until later on while hanging out at a piano bar called Uncle Charlie's. They strive to have lunch together as often as their schedules mutually allow, and that time is a chance to renew inspiration in their art as well as laugh endlessly and debate if needed. He, along with Nesha and Noland, have become a tight family for Matt, and he is so lucky to have them all standing up with him as he marries Eddie. Hakim lives in New York with his husband, David.
Laura Dilello
Groomswoman
Eddie and Laura's friendship goes all the way back to 2011, when they worked together as staff nurses (Laura was head nurse) on an adolescent psychiatric inpatient unit at Elmhurst Hospital, Queens. When Eddie left Elmhurst Hospital for NYP, the separation was too much for both of them, causing Laura to join him in NYP not long after. Laura and Eddie share an obsession for Disney, leading them to meet up several times in Disney World, where they promptly drink all of the grapefruit beer that they can manage. Laura is also responsible for Eddie spending TOO MUCH MONEY on holiday decorations at the Christmas Tree Shop in Long Island. Laura lives in Long Island, NY with her boyfriend, Brendan, and his son, Kendall.
Dan Michlin
Groomsman
Dan and Matt work together at JetBlue, and he has become not just a friend, but a true mentor. Dan and his fiancé Adam often host game nights with Matt and Eddie, and it’s those times most cherished. When together, you’ll find them laughing, debating politics, trying not to discuss JetBlue, and they both make a mean cocktail! To know Dan is to know true selflessness, and Matt is truly honored to have him standing with him.
Ore Adaramola
Groomswoman
Ore and Eddie go all the way back to seven years ago when they started within a month of each other as nurses on the night shift at NY Presbyterian Hospital. Although they didn't get a lot of chances to work the 11pm to 7am shift together, they were a force to be reckoned with from 7pm to 11pm. Ore introduced Eddie to the wonder of Snapchat filters, and they have many pictures on their phone to prove it. Ore is renowned for her uncanny spirit, sense of humor, and passion for life. Like Eddie, Ore has recently become a board certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is working at NYP as a staff nurse and part time as a nurse practitioner at an outpatient clinic in Upstate New York.
Aaron Jusino
Groomsman
Aaron was a classmate of Matt's and Chelsea's at JetBlue. He and Matt made some great memories in training as we sang and laughed to break tension during those stressful weeks. They served together on a work committee, and that only helped forge a strong friendship outside of the workplace. In fact, it's thanks to Aaron that Matt has his obsession with Orangetheory Fitness, and you may have seen the two of them friendly roast each other with their stats on social media. Aaron is a true gem, and Matt is beyond humbled to count him as a friend. Aaron lives in Orlando with his partner, Joaquin.
Konstantin Dmitrienko
Groomsman
Eddie and Konstantin (Kostya for short) met in New York City not long after Eddie moved there for his Master's program at NYU. Eddie and Kostya went to Fire Island together (the first time for both) and spent many nights eating and drinking at all of the restaurants featured in one of Kostya's favorite TV Shows, Sex and the City. Kostya received his MBA from Columbia University in NYC. He is originally from Russia but currently lives and works in Amsterdam.
Katie Potter
Usher
Katie and Matt were born just two weeks apart, and have been the closest of friends ever since. In fact, before Matt had cousins of his own, Katie and her sister, Liz, were who Matt considered to be closest to the real deal. They are true members of Matt's family, and he simply cannot imagine life with them. Katie lives just outside of Denver with her husband, Glenn, and their sons, Aiden and Dillon.
Wyatt Fritz
Usher
Being one of Eddie's older cousins (on his dad's side), Wyatt has known Eddie from the very beginning. They spent many sleepovers together as kids and both share a passion for traveling as adults. Wyatt is a part of the national guard and lives in the Wausau, WI area with his wife, Holly, and his son, Maddox. Wyatt and Holly are expecting a new addition to their family in the near future!
Liz Aaser
Usher
Liz and Matt have been guilty of far too many shenanigans throughout Minneapolis, and have yet to be caught. Liz is Katie's younger sister, and as Matt said above, is more family than friend. In fact, Katie and Liz were the very first family members to whom Matt came out. Their unconditional love was an anchor for Matt as he made his journey as a gay man, and that love is a true treasure. When all together, Matt, Liz, and Katie can be found quoting their favorite lines from "Clue" or "Neverending Story" as well as belting out the hit children's songs, "Hippy and Lippy" and "The Lion with the Mangey Mane." Liz lives outside of Minneapolis.
Molly Peden
Usher
Although Molly has been mistaken for Eddie's sister on multiple occasions due to her blonde hair and blue eyes, she happens to be his younger cousin (on his mother's side). Molly recently graduated from high school (in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic) and is currently living in the Tampa, FL area. She is currently taking classes in Mathematics with the goal of working in business. Eddie is honored to be the first one to introduce her to the joy and craziness of Disney's Magic Kingdom.
Rev. Dr. Shelly Petz
Officiant
Shelly and Matt grew up together, and attended Sunday School and UMYF together at the First United Methodist Church in Hays, KS. They also played drums in the school band, sang in the school show choir, and performed in the HS Musicals together. It is a true honor to have Shelly officiate Matt's and Eddie's wedding, for it is Shelly who truly helped Matt find peace between his faith and his sexuality. To now be ushering Matt and Eddie into their vows to one another is a priceless gift. Shelly lives in Hutchinson, KS with her husband, Dustin, and their children Shaylin and Derek.
Jackson Kuehl
Ring Bearer
Jackson is Matt's nephew, and the son of Jamie and Kelsey. He is quite the little athlete, just like his parents. He's a huge Chiefs fan, and can most likely be found playing any type of sport with a ball or his new PS5.
Ryleigh Kuehl
Flower Girl
Miss Ryleigh is Matt's niece, and the daughter of Robbie and Rebecca. She is beyond artistic, loves The Last Airbender, and can perform the opening number of "Hamilton" flawlessly.
Lincoln Finney
Ring Bearer
Lincoln is Eddie's youngest nephew, the son of his older sister, Tracy. He recently celebrated his first birthday and enjoys eating, watching Fraggle Rock on TV, and playing with his toy cars.
Jayma Kuehl
Flower Girl
Jayma is Matt's niece, and the daughter of Jamie and Kelsey. She is a cheerleader, and a flyer at that! She loves to dance, and loves coaching her uncles as they try (terribly) to do gymnastics and cheer.
Richard Kuehl
Father of the Groom
Richard, or Rick, is Matt's father, and is most likely the one responsible for Matt's terrible jokes and "awe schucks/gee whiz" demeanor. Serving as a flight instructor for the Air Force, he then retired and took ownership of five McDonald's in Western Kansas. It's thanks to this career that Rick was able to provide amazing opportunities for his family such as a trip the 1984 Olympics. Since retiring, he will most often be found working in the yard or enjoying the pool, as well as spending early mornings out on the golf course.
Gail Kuehl
Mother of the Groom
Gail had no easy task being the mother to three boys, but she and Rick were able to enthusiastically engage with Matt, Robbie, and Jamie in their vastly different interests. As if that weren't enough, she was co-owner of the McDonald's franchise. Now that she is retired, she spends a great deal of time volunteering, serving on various committees, but also finds time to knit, read, or swim if it's warm out, and loves being Nana to Matt's nieces and nephews.
Edward F. Neve
Father of the Groom
Happy to marry off another of his three children, Eddie's father shares many similarities with Matt. They were both born on May 2nd, they are both left-handed, and they both like to tease the ever-loving-dickens out of Eddie when they are able to. Edward (who normally goes by Ed), is a lifetime fan of the Green Bay Packers and the Wisconsin Badgers. He is proud to tell others that Eddie is part-owner of the Green Bay Packers due to a small purchase made while Eddie was in grade school. After working for thirty years as the director of safety and security at the American Family Insurance headquarters in Madison, WI, Ed is finally enjoying retirement.
Dawn Neve
Mother of the Groom
It is not hard for people to realize that Dawn is Eddie's mom, especially when they are standing next to each other. Besides looking a lot alike, they both studied nursing at UW-Eau Claire, they both enjoy an occasional gin and tonic, and they both watch WAY TOO MANY rom-com's on the Hallmark Channel. Dawn has been a nurse for approximately forty years, working in urology, dialysis, and oncology in the past. She is currently working on a short-term surgery unit in Madison, but plans to be retiring later this year. Also, if you want to make her day, take her for a quick lunch or dinner at her FAVORITE RESTAURANT OF ALL TIME, the Texas Roadhouse.
William TN Hall
Pianist
Will and Matt have been friends for over 10 years, beginning when Will worked for Matt at the Broadway theatres. He has since become one of New York City's most sought after cabaret musical directors, a talented composer, and host of weekly sing alongs at some of New York's most popular piano bars. It is a true privilege having him play piano with Matt and Eddie's most vocally talented friends.
Stephanie Serfecz
Integral Wedding Coordinator
Steph and Matt worked together at the Broadway theatres, and have since forged an important friendship through their art and their passion, as well as a fondness for a good drink and sassy banter. If you ever have a chance, Matt and Eddie HIGHLY recommend catching a performance by Steph's Burlesque character, Sizzle Dizzle. Her creativity and unique sense of artistry brings new life and electricity to this beautiful art form. You can also catch her tending bar in a few of Brooklyn's neighborhood bars, where she'll be more than happy to pour you some stiff drinks and talk football with you. Steph lives in Brooklyn where she takes care of her fur babies as well as teaches yoga online. She truly does it all.
Lexi Burton
Reader
Lexi is Matt's niece, and the daughter of Robbie and Rebecca. She is a member of the High School Cross Country and Wrestling teams, as well a musical and visual artist. She recently obtained her restricted driver license, and may now be seen chauffeuring her parents and family around town.
Aiden Burton
Reader
Aiden is Matt's nephew, and is the son of Robbie and Rebecca. Aiden is a genius at math, as well as plays in his school band and orchestra. As if that's not enough, he is also a member of the school wrestling team. He amazes Matt and Eddie with his observations, and his ability to bring laughter is such a beautiful gift.
Carlie Dixon
Reader
Carlie is the daughter of Marlynda and Will Dixon, and Matt considers her his niece. She loves school, and also loves to remain aloof. Matt has grown to look forward to Carlie's birthday as well as Christmas, and the fun he has literally interpreting Carlie's abstract gift ideas. For example, one year Carlie asked for a life for Christmas. So what did she find under the tree? The Game of Life. Ha!
Matty Dixon
Reader
Matty is the son of Marlynda and Will Dixon, and Matt considers him his nephew. In fact, Matty was named after Matt! He loves his video games as well as giving his sister a hard time. He's such a sweetheart, and Matt is beyond proud of the young man Matty is growing up to be.
Vanessa Saturday
Wedding Planner
Vanessa always knew she wanted to be a part of weddings when she was growing up. She attended college for Hospitality/ Hotel & Restaurant Management and after working with a wedding planner while in school and planning her own wedding she then ventured out and opened her own business. In her free time, Vanessa loves spending time with her family and friends, she has two cute little boys. They enjoy anything outside in the sun and just having fun.
Aurora Albedyll
Reader
Aurora is Eddie's niece, the daughter of his oldest sister Tracy. She is Eddie's first niece and only god-daughter. Eddie had the opportunity of bringing her to Disney World for the first time, thus instilling his love for Disney within her for years to come. Aurora is incredibly talented, possessing her mother's gift of crafting things for others. Aurora has also inherited Eddie's love for musicals; right now her favorite happens to be the Rocky Horror Picture Show. She spends most of her spare time playing The Sims and giving cuddles to her pet rat, Roxie.