Wedding Party
Alyson McMaster
Matron of Honor
Nearly two decades ago, Alyson and Nicole met while working together at Best Buy in Deptford, NJ and they’ve been inseparable ever since. Through every chapter of life, Alyson has been Nicole’s right-hand woman, standing by her side through the thick, the thin, and plenty of wonderfully chaotic (but incredibly fun) moments in between. Alyson is also known for having the memory of an elephant… Regularly bringing up stories and memories that Nicole has very little recollection of… which may or may not be related to two girls in their twenties who believed partying daily was simply part of a well-balanced lifestyle. Yet she’s always been down for the ride, no matter the craziness involved. At one point, their friendship was quite literally taken to the next level when Alyson lived in the apartment right above Nicole. Wherever Alyson goes, she brings sunshine, love, and warmth to everyone she meets. There are many great friends in life, but Alyson is the once-in-a-lifetime kind… The one who becomes family by choice. From coworkers, to neighbors, to lifelong best friends and chosen sisters, she has been a constant source of laughter, comfort, and unwavering support, making her the perfect person to stand beside Nicole on her wedding day.
Myriam Rivera-Colon
Bridesmaid
Nicole and Myriam’s friendship began nearly two decades ago thanks to a classic case of retail trauma bonding. Although they didn’t even work at the same Best Buy, mutual friends brought them together while they were both navigating life in different stores and it didn’t take long for them to realize how much they loved each other’s energy (again, a case of girls in their 20’s thinking partying was a way of life). They built a friendship rooted in laughter, loyalty, and fun. Myriam is one of the most hardworking and dedicated people Nicole knows, a quality she has always deeply admired. No matter what life throws her way, Myriam shows up with determination, strength, and a heart that cares so much for the people around her. She also keeps things interesting by occasionally throwing in little comments in Spanish… whether she’s lovingly hyping Nicole up or secretly roasting her is something Nicole will probably never know… she just smiles and goes along with it. Most importantly, Myriam is the ultimate kitty aunt to Nicole’s many fur nieces and nephews, showering them with love and attention even when her allergies try their absolute best to ruin the moment. Having Myriam standing by her side on such an important day means the world to Nicole and is a true reflection of the beautiful friendship they share.
Dana Hawkins-Thomas
Bridesmaid
From the very first moment Nicole met Dana, she knew she was incredibly lucky to be gaining her as Drew’s sister. Growing up surrounded by all boys, Nicole never really knew what it felt like to have a sister until Dana came into her life. Dana truly is the whole package as a sister-in-law-to-be. She’s a phenomenal cook, an incredibly thoughtful gift giver, and hands down the most talented hair stylist Nicole has ever met, even if she may be just a tiny bit of a perfectionist. She also has a way of being absolutely hilarious without even trying, which makes spending time with her that much more fun. Most importantly, Dana is as real and loyal as they come. She shows up for the people she loves in the biggest ways, and over time has become so much more than just Drew’s sister to Nicole. She’s become the sister she always wished she had. Nicole truly feels like she hit the jackpot gaining Dana as family and couldn’t be more grateful to have her standing by her side on such a special day.