Elbert & David
Wedding Party
Pauline Balboa Pelea
Matron of Honor
"On the first day of culinary school, I was locked out of my dorm building. There was rain in the air and I did not have an umbrella- not the best way to start things off. There was a girl at the door in the same predicament and we laughed over our misfortune as we ventured over to campus security. We've been besties since! There have been many 'rainy days' since we first met and with Pauline in my life, she always is able to help find the humor. Pauline is an accomplished pastry chef in NYC and lives with her wonderful husband Sorin and their beautiful newborn baby George." -Elbert
Elizabeth Mondragon-Groff
Matron of Honor
"Elizabeth and I met at Boston University in an opera workshop. I was the mute Toby to her vivacious Monica in an opera scene and that was that: we've been best friends ever since. Elizabeth has unmatched talent as a singer and has the best sense of humor, getting me through pretty much everything in the last [amount of time not disclosed] years. I had the joy of being the Man of Honor at Elizabeth's wedding and couldn't be more happy to have her by my side at my wedding" - David
Marissa Nguyen
Best Lady
"I stared at Marissa's photo for a few days before I actually met her. Our former boss taped her resume in a public employee space and I remember thinking to myself: "I don't like her. There is only enough room for one pretty Asian girl in this workspace and that title belongs to me." When Marissa arrived, I was tasked with training her and as I was speaking to her I had to stop mid-sentence and say "I'm sorry. I lost my train of thought. You are stunningly beautiful!". Marissa's beauty is apparent and surpassed only by the beauty that resides in her heart. Always encouraging me and helping me to see my worth and value, I am lucky to call Marissa my friend and my sister (older of course). Marissa, there will always be room for you." -Elbert
Lesley Mazzotta
Best Lady
"Lesley and I met at Marble Collegiate Church in the early 2000's. She is one of the most kind-hearted, generous people I know. She is also famous for her hospitality - she hosted our engagement party, and I have spent many beautiful summer days with her at her Cape Cod home. I'm so grateful for her friendship and support as I move into this new phase of my life." - David