Maria Fiatarone
Brad Benson
Maria Fiatarone
Brad Benson
May 9, 2026
How we met
We met in high school and were acquaintances for many years after. Then we ran into each other at the Roundup Bar in Lafayette, CA and sparks flew. We had our first date 2 days later on Valentine's Day and fell in love shortly thereafter. We've been together for 13 beautiful and adventurous years and now we get to embark on this next journey of marriage. We are so blessed in the relationship we've cultivated and the bond of love we share. With God by our side, we look forward to this next chapter of our lives together.
The Proposal
We went on a horseback trail ride up Blue Mountain in Missoula, MT. We got off our horses to take in the view at the top of the mountain. Whilst in the clearing, Brad got down on one knee and proposed. It was very romantic and so “us” doing this horseback riding activity together that we both love. Brad had a photographer hiding out to catch the whole moment on camera. It was perfect! "For I have found the one my soul loves." -Song of Solomon 3:4
Wedding Party
Elena Wexler
Bridesmaid
Caroline Schneidereit
Bridesmaid
Caroline Shuford
Bridesmaid
Bill Stefani
Groomsman
Carlo Fiatarone
Groomsman
Jon Forst
Groomsman
David Wexler
Groomsman
Joseph Schneider
Ring Man
Imogen Schneidereit
Flower Girl
Schedule
Friday, May 8, 2026
Welcome to Texas Party
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
350 E Louisiana St, Suite B, Mckinney, TX 75069
Bring your boots and don your western wear for a night of honky-tonk fun!
We will host a Texas BBQ buffet and there will be a bar to purchase alcoholic libations.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
Wedding Ceremony
4:00 pm - 4:30 pm
6641 Mediterranean Dr, Mckinney, TX 75072
Semi-Formal: suits and cocktail dresses or gowns
Please note the wedding weekend will be an adults only event.
Cocktail Hour
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
114 W Louisiana St, Mckinney, TX 75069
After a short respite following the ceremony, join us for Cocktail Hour and appetizers at Rick's 110, inside The Grand Hotel, first floor.
Wedding Reception
6:30 pm - 11:30 pm
114 W Louisiana St, Mckinney, TX 75069
This event will be in the hotel ballroom upstairs from the preceding cocktail party.
Travel
Hotel
The Grand Hotel
This is the only hotel in downtown McKinney and it is located where everything is within walking distance. The wedding reception will also be held here. We have a room block with a discounted rate if you use the group code listed below. Please call the hotel directly to book to ensure the room rate discount on all nights. Please book your room by April 8, 2026 to ensure availability and the rate. It is advisable to call the hotel directly as there has been an issue with their website saying it is fully booked-it is not booked up!
Discount Code - Group Code: BENSONWEDDING26
Flight
DFW (Dallas Ft. Worth airport) or DAL (Dallas Love Field: Southwest airlines)
McKinney is about 40 minutes from either airport. You will need to rent a car to get to McKinney or take an Uber (around $75 each way). Once you are in McKinney everything is walking distance to the hotel.
Things To Do
Historic Downtown McKinney
Cute and walkable downtown area with boutiques, art galleries, wine tasting, and eateries.
Fort Worth Stockyards
Great place to visit the famous Texas Longhorn Cattle, grab a drink at a honky tonk, or go horseback riding.
Golf
Escapology Escape Rooms McKinney
FAQs
Question
When should I RSVP by?
Answer
Please RSVP by April 1, 2026.
Question
What should I wear?
Answer
Men: Suits and ties Women: Cocktail dresses
Question
I have a special dietary need, who should I contact?
Answer
Please send these requests to Maria at mariafiatarone@gmail.com.
Question
Are my children invited?
Answer
While we love all your little ones this weekend will be adults only. Think of it as an opportunity to get some R & R and to let loose a little ;)
Question
I have more questions, who should I connect with?
Answer
You can reach out directly to Maria at 925-360-7773 or mariafiatarone@gmail.com. If you have questions during the wedding weekend please contact my sister in law Thea Fiatarone at 510-506-3356.
Gallery
Registry
RSVP
Please enter the first and last name of one member of your party below.
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