Emily & Jeffersson
Wedding Party
Emily
Bride
Here comes the bride! Emily was born and raised in Middletown, New Jersey. Her childhood was spent going to the beach, playing with the neighbors, and dreaming of her happily ever after. Emily didn't always dream of moving to California. She actually had a meltdown on a vacation in 2005 when her mom, only out of curiosity, stopped at an open house in San Diego. Emily was screaming "I don't want to move to California!" But that all changed as Emily got older. She spent two years in LA for college and absolutely loved it. When she moved back home after graduating, she could not wait to get back. Five years later she did, and as much as she wanted this, it was a hard adjustment for her to learn how to balance her new independence while also keeping in touch with her family so she wouldn't feel too lonely. After about a year, she finally felt like she figured out that balance and was proud of how far she had come. Now it felt like she was ready for the next step in life, and that's when she met Jeffersson. The moment Jeffersson gave her flowers on their first date, Emily knew he was special, and she was right. The two often say that it felt like everything fell into place so easily in their relationship. Emily was drawn to Jeffersson because of how goofy he is, his family values, and his adventurous spirit, which reflected much of her own personality. Jeffersson is the prince that this Disney fairytale obsessed little girl always dreamed of marrying.
Jefferson
Groom
Jeff was born and raised in Guatemala City! He was an extrovert kid, always curious about anything that you can think about. Growing up, Jeff tried to participate in basically everything he could, always guided by his amazing family who let him be who he was. Sometimes yapping and sometimes quiet, he learned many lessons by examples of his parents and grandparents. He loved soccer so much that his parents decided to enroll him in a soccer academy at the age of 8. Through the years he got better and better until he reached a great potential playing for his favorite football club. His family always had his back even in the worst scenarios! From all the things he's been learning in his life, it was always family that came first. Even after a career ending injury, which kept him from continuing to play the game that he loved, he didn't give up his positive outlook. With his family supporting him at all times and all the values they taught him, he came up from the bottom in all of his new goals. Jeff is now working towards the biggest goal of his life. He's always dreamed of finding the most beautiful woman, and now he has and has fallen in love with her kindness, her heart, and her silliness. Everything he has been through has made him a thoughtful and loving son and grandson! And now he is ready to be an even greater husband!
Colleen
Maid of Honor
Colleen is Emily's younger sister. Growing up Colleen and Emily did everything together. Between playing with Barbies, making up dance routines to Hannah Montana songs, or being forced to wear matching bright colored outfits so their mom can spot them in a crowd, they were two peas in a pod. Colleen truly was Emily's best friend growing up. They have so many memories of playing with the neighbors, having sleepovers in each other's rooms, and car rides to school. Emily has always admired Colleen's authenticity, and how she is never afraid to appear too weird. Aside from Jeffersson, Colleen knows Emily better than anyone. Colleen is always a fun time, and even in adulthood when the two of them get together it's nonstop giggles. If you hear Pitbull playing at the reception, just know Colleen will be out on the dancefloor!
Roger
Best Man
Roger is Jeffersson's younger brother. He was the brother Jeff always dreamed of. Since Roger was a baby, they've always been close. Laughing and learning and most importantly, spending time with their family. Roger knows Jeff more than anyone, as they spend so much time together. The values they share and the respect they have for each other is something people have told them they wish that they had with their own families, which is an indication of how well their parents raised the two boys. Jeffersson has so many memories with Roger, that they could spend days just sitting on the deck and reminiscing about everything they've been through together. Despite their age difference, they understand each other so well, which gives them even more comfort and confidence with each other.
Siobhan
Matron of Honor
Siobhan is Emily's older sister. Throughout childhood, Emily always looked up to Siobhan. Siobhan was a perfect role model of an older sister. Emily saw her as someone who got good grades, stayed out of trouble, and had the coolest friends. Emily's best memories growing up with Siobhan were when their parents would take weekend trips and Siobhan would babysit. They would go bowling, go to the movies, and often go to Friendly's for dinner. She loved having someone like Siobhan looking out for her growing up. But the best memories Emily has of Siobhan are during the time she lived with her and her family from 2021-2023. Emily and Siobhan grew so much closer during that time and Emily cherishes the memories of self care nights, watching New Girl or the Challenge, and staying up too late drinking too much wine and sharing secrets.
Joel
Groomsman
Joel is the very first friend that Jeffersson met who he can really relate to and trust. They met each other at work but because they were not appreciated enough at their job, they went their separate ways about a week later. But even in that short time, they noticed how goofy they both were and instantly connected. When Jeff was ready for a new opportunity to further develop his skills, Joel reached out to him for a new position. Now that they were working together again, they became even closer and relied on each other professionally. They really have each other's backs. Now the two no longer work together, but still remain close friends. Joel is a friendly guy that you can easily trust. Jeff is glad to have him as a friend!
Scarlet
Bridesmaid
Scarlet is an incredible person—smart, hardworking, and genuinely kind. Her dedication to her studies is inspiring, always pushing herself to learn and grow. But beyond her intelligence, she has a heart of gold, always willing to help and support those around her. She’s the kind of person who can brighten any room with her presence, bringing warmth and positivity wherever she goes. Whether she’s deep in her books or enjoying time with friends, Scarlet gives her all, making her someone truly special to have in our lives and on this big day.
Gus
Groomsman
Gus is a genuinely great person—kind, attentive, and always willing to lend a hand. He’s the type of guy who looks out for everyone, making sure people feel welcome and taken care of. Whether he’s helping out in any way he can or hosting a great party, he brings people together with his warmth and generosity. His ability to make others feel comfortable and valued is something truly special, and having him be part of this big day makes it even more meaningful.
Rhys
Junior Bridesmaid
Rhys is Emily's oldest niece. Before Emily met Rhys, she was always uncomfortable around kids. But when first meeting her, all Rhys wanted to do was play with "Emmy," and that awkwardness Emily had was gone. Rhys was the first to coin the name that Emily loves hearing her nieces and nephews call her.
Michael
Groomsman
Michael is Emily's brother, the oldest of the Smith kids. Emily always had fun with Michael, growing up, like the time he forgot to put the car in park and it hit the fence, slightly bending it so it couldn't lock, and Emily never said a word to the rest of the family until 10 years later when they moved into a new house. Michael was in the military during most of Emily's adolescence. The times he would come home on leave were just a big two week long party. One time, her mom even let her stay home from school for a week when he was home. He took his sisters to the mall and bought Rockband and they played it for days straight. Emily feels a close connection to her brother, and enjoys their weekly facetime calls and annual visits with each other. They always stay up late on those visits, and just like with her sisters, laugh about everything.
Ryan
Flower Girl
Ryan is Emily's youngest niece, and her little twin. Ryan is full of love and sass. Emily loves talking to her on the phone, as she is so expressive. Recently on the phone Ryan expressed how excited she was to dance the night away at Aunt Emily's wedding!
Liam
Ring Bearer
Liam is Emily's nephew. Emily still recalls how tiny Liam was when he was first born, and his little suit for his first Easter was so big on him. Liam is such a funny and sweet kid. Emily loves visiting Texas and taking him and Rhys to the playground, to the movies, and to get ice cream.
Thomas and Joan
Parents of the Bride
Thomas and Joan have been married since 1985. Both were born in New York to Irish Catholic families, Thomas raised in Queens and Joan raised in the Bronx. They have four children, Michael, 38, Siobhan, 35, Emily, 29, and Colleen, 26. Emily is proud to take qualities from both parents. On a recent trip to visit New Jersey, Jeffersson commented that he sees where Emily gets certain traits from, and he meant this as the highest of compliments. Emily has always admired her mother's thoughtfulness towards others, ability to coordinate outings or parties (Joan was often referred to as "The Fearless Leader" by other neighborhood mothers), and the way she is able to turn any place into a dancefloor. Emily has always looked up to her father for his humor, his knowledge about so many topics (Emily and her dad make an unbeatable Trivial Pursuit team), and the way he's able to connect with anyone. Emily considers herself lucky to have such a great relationship with both parents. She loves her time hanging out with them one on one, or with both of them all to herself without other siblings, although she also loves when everyone is together. She has learned so much from her parents, like how to treat others with respect, how to navigate living independently, and the best lesson of all: what a happy marriage should look like.
Marlyn & Alex
Parents of the Groom
There are not enough words to express how thankful Jeffersson is to have been raised by Marlyn and Alex. From the very beginning, they have been his greatest teachers, instilling in him the values that shape the person he is today. Every lesson they taught, piece of advice they gave, and sacrifice they made was out of pure love. They showed their sons the difference between right and wrong, the importance of kindness and humility, and how to treat others with respect. No matter what, they always led by example, proving the importance of hard work, honesty, and love. Beyond the lessons, Marlyn and Alex have always been their son's biggest supporters, standing beside him through every dream, every crazy idea, and every challenge he's taken on. Whether it was playing soccer, chasing a new passion, or setting his sights on something unexpected, they never hesitated to encourage Jeff, to believe in him even when he doubted himself. Their faith in him has given him the strength to pursue life with confidence, knowing that no matter what, he always had them cheering him on. Jeffersson truly wouldn’t be who he is without Marlyn and Alex. Their love, patience, and sacrifices have shaped him in more ways than he feels he can ever repay. Jeffersson is beyond grateful for everything they have done and continue to do. He will always cherish the incredible parents that he is so lucky to have and he will forever carry their love, lessons, and support in his heart.