Wedding Party
Alessandra Checchia
Maid of Honor
By a stroke of luck (and maybe a little divine intervention), Ale won the random roommate lottery and spent four unforgettable years in a 4x4 cube at Stonehill College with Gianna. One of their very first Instagram DMs nearly ended it all when Ale threatened to call off their budding friendship over a chocolate debate—Gianna’s love of milk chocolate vs. Ale’s loyalty to dark. Cooler heads (and shared snacks) prevailed, though that didn’t stop Ale from happily stealing Gianna’s snacks for the next four years (Gianna once had to hide her Raisinets from Ale—true story). Since then, they’ve become brothers-in-arms, partner assassins, a pirate duo, and the kind of soul-bonded best friends that only come around once in a lifetime.
Matthew MacKay
Best Man
Matt is the taller, stronger, and better looking younger brother of Chris. The two have shared a lifelong bond, supporting each other through everything—and now, Matt is honored to stand by Chris’s side as his best man. He first met Gianna back in high school during their joint volleyball warmups, and it's been incredible to watch their relationship grow ever since. Matt is thrilled to officially welcome Gianna to the family, even if she has quickly become the favorite child.
Genna Hartman
Bridesmaid
Genna played softball with Gianna for four years at Stonehill. She loved being throwing partners with Gi and they had speech pathology classes together. She is beyond excited and honored to be by Gianna’s side for her big day!
Kyle MacKay
Groomsman
Kyle is Chris’s cousin, but anyone who knows them, knows it’s always been more of a brother- type bond. They have grown up side by side, been through just about everything together, and Chris still hasn’t missed a single opportunity to make a joke at Kyle’s expense — which, honestly, is part of the fun. Watching Chris find someone as genuine and amazing as Gi has been awesome, and I’m truly honored to stand with them both on their big day. I couldn’t be happier for them, and I can’t wait to celebrate. Here’s to Chris & Gi!
Julia Perrone
Bridesmaid
When Julia met Gianna, they were teammates on the Stonehill softball team. But in the four years they spent at college, Gianna became many other things as well. She became Julia’s partner in crime, her rock, her voice of reason, and her lifelong best friend. Julia can’t think of another person on this earth who deserves a happily-ever-after more than Gianna does, and she’s so excited to be a part of her special day.
Anthony Azzato
Groomsman
To my incredible sister, I am so profoundly proud to have you as my sister. From childhood secrets to navigating adulthood, we’ve always been the tightest team. Now, Chris has officially joined the mix, and honestly, what a genuinely great mix it is! Watching you two build this beautiful life together fills my heart with joy. Cheers to a lifetime of laughter, love, and keeping the three of us close. I love you both and wish you a lifetime of bliss!
Caroline Casey
Bridesmaid
Caroline played softball with Gianna at Stonehill. When she found out another Long Island native was coming to Stonehill, her heart was so happy. From being at Stonehill together to now coaching travel softball together there have been so many fun memories. She is super excited to celebrate this amazing couple and be there on the big day!
Nicholas Mann
Groomsman
I’m incredibly honored to be part of Chris and Gianna’s big day. Gianna is my sister, and watching her find such a loving and supportive partner in Chris has meant the world to me. Chris has become more than just a brother-in-law — he’s truly family. I’m so excited to celebrate their love and the amazing life they’re building together.
Madison McGlone
Bridesmaid
I’ve known Gi my entire life she’s not just my cousin, she’s one of my favorites to see at the holidays or any day. Growing up together gave us a bond that’s equal parts family and friendship, and I’m so honored to stand beside her on such a meaningful day. I am so happy to celebrate an everlasting love.
Gavin Mann
Groomsman
To Gianna, I love my sister more than words can really explain. She’s been there for me in ways big and small, through the good days and the hard ones, and her presence alone makes everything feel a little easier. I will never take that for granted. To Chris, There once was a guy who walked into my sisters life thinking he was just dating a girl, not realizing he was signing up for a lifetime of family chaos, inside jokes, and opinions he didn’t ask for. From day one, he showed up steady, kind, and somehow unshaken by it all. Sometimes you annoy me but thats cool in the end we all fam.
Isabella Azzato
Bridesmaid
From the very beginning, Isabella has felt lucky to call Gianna not just family, but one of her closest friends. Growing up, she was always asking her dad if she could visit Long Island to see her “Gigi Beans,” a nickname that says it all about their sweet bond. Gianna has always held a special place in Bella’s heart, and being part of this beautiful celebration with Gianna and Chris is truly an honor. Bella is overjoyed to stand by their side and wishes the happy couple all the love and happiness in the world as they begin this next chapter together.
Eddie Hernandez
Groomsman
I first met Gianna when my wife and I interviewed her for a babysitting job. From the very beginning, she became so much more than just a sitter—she became part of our family, and our girls absolutely adore her. When Chris came into the picture, they loved him just as much. Not long after, Chris and I became firefighter brothers, and that bond turned into a lifelong friendship. Today, I’m grateful to say Gianna and Chris are not just friends—they are truly family.
Kristina Luparello
Bridesmaid
I will forever remember the first time I met Gianna. She was introduced into the classroom I was teaching in; there was a light in her soul that radiated. Gianna’s kindness and love for speech pathology showed as she sat with the students and confidently worked with them. The observant person that I am, I noticed how special she is and knew right away this is someone I need to know. Before her last session, this tall Italian beauty walked in with a plated numbered necklace and a backpack with a volleyball on it. That was it, bam, she was the missing piece to my life and beach volleyball team! When summer started, I reached out and she was there, and she brought her “boyfriend” Chris. He showed up in his Cool Dude volleyball sunglasses and I thought, wow, this is the real deal! We clicked instantly and truly enjoyed each other’s company. From that day on we’ve always had each other’s backs and always will. Gianna and Chris together are an athletic, strong, incredible force and completely meant for one another. You know how good someone is by the way they love their family and animals. Both of their families are incredible and so welcoming. And if you ever meet their precious fur babies, Loki and Maverick, you’ll see the unconditional love and care they give. I am honored to have seen Chris ask Gianna to marry him and now watch them say “I Do.” God Bless my best friends. I love you both and wish you endless happiness and love forever.
Jason Walters
Groomsman
I met Chris and Gianna for the first time during a beach volleyball game, To say the least I was very hesitant having new people come to the team, but after the first match was done I new instantly we were going to be best friends. Chris and Gianna’s competing spirit matched my own. From that day at cedar beach we became close friends, from celebrating birthdays together or to just hanging out and going bowling. Even getting to know their families over the years and being welcomed by the Mackay’s and Azzato’s, like I’ve been part of the family the whole time. Im extremely honored to be Chris’s Groomsman, He’s an amazing man and a superb friend. Which makes it my honor to be standing by his side. Chris – Gianna , Marriage is a team sport, and with both of you playing, I know you’ll win!
Stewart MacKay
Father of the Groom
The BIG DAY is coming! What was once 18 long months away is now only a few short months away and it’s EXCITING! Chris, as you’ve begun your professional life in that “front row seat to the greatest show on earth,” I can only hope & pray that it’ll be as fulfilling as my own front row seat, watching you from your 1st breath to what now lies ahead for you. It’s been my privilege to be your father, and I’ve been immensely proud to have you as my son. You've grown up strong, confident & courageous! You’ve made excellent choices as you’ve grown into the fine young man you are today, and the BEST decision you’ve ever made was choosing Gianna to share your life with. Gianna although you’ve already been an incredible addition to our family, we are SO excited, immensely pleased & enthusiastically proud to “officially” welcome you into our family! From day 1, we knew you were extra special, and watching you blossom from college student to healthcare professional, from girlfriend to fiancée to soon-to-be wife, has been such a joy. Your compassion, patience, & capacity for love all blend to make you that “extra special someone” we’re SO grateful Chris found. As you move forward together, remember that you now share the responsibility for each other’s joy, safety & happiness. You’re no longer just “you" now you’re “us,” and together you’ll be stronger through all of life’s challenges & blessings. Wishing you both a lifetime of laughter, happiness, success, health, wealth & LOTS of love!
Maryann MacKay
Mother of the Groom
Chris has always been my first—my first baby, my first glimpse of what it means to love someone so completely that your heart feels like it lives outside your body. Watching him grow into the man he is today has been the greatest honor of my life. And now, seeing him marry Gianna—his best friend, his match, his calm in the storm—is a joy beyond words. From the beginning, there was something about Gianna that felt like home. Her kindness, her smile, and the way she supports Chris with quiet strength—it’s the kind of love every mother hopes her son will find. I remember watching their bond unfold over time, and how natural it always seemed, as if their hearts had recognized each other long before we did. As a mother, all I’ve ever wanted is for Chris to be truly happy. And with Gianna, I see that happiness reflected in his eyes—in the way he listens more deeply, loves more freely, and stands even taller beside her. For that, I am endlessly grateful. Today, we celebrate the beautiful beginning of their forever. And with all my heart, I wish them a life filled with wonder, deep friendship, and a love that only grows stronger with time.
Anthony Azzato
Father of the Bride
Let me tell you about Anthony and the role he’s played in Gianna and Chris’s adventurous life. One could say—and it wouldn’t be wrong—that Anthony played a divine role in bringing one very special soul into this world: Gianna. You see, Anthony is her dad. He’s been there from day one, changing diapers, cheering her on from the sidelines, and being her biggest supporter through every chapter of life. Over time, he didn’t just become her father—he became her best friend. Then came the day Gianna decided to bring someone else into the picture. Well, to be fair, she brought him home while she was away at college. One afternoon, Anthony found himself face-to-face with this nervous young man named Christopher. He walked into the house with flowers in hand, dressed like he was heading to church. That alone earned him some points with Anthony, and so—date approved. Of course, being the dad, Anthony had to test him a little. He joked about whether Chris had a job, trying to see if he could rattle him just a bit. But Chris didn’t flinch. He was polite, respectful, and held his own. That’s when Anthony knew—this kid was a keeper. And from that moment on, Anthony’s role evolved once again—from dad, to best friend, to proud supporter of the love story unfolding in front of him.
Denise Azzato-Mann
Mother of the Bride
Gianna’s mother describes her daughter as her little girl, just yesterday, and her friend today. She speaks with deep admiration of Gianna’s strength, warmth, and capacity for love and forgiveness, often wondering what she ever did to deserve someone so wonderful in her life. Reflecting on the early days of Gianna and Chris’s relationship, she recalls a special memory. Seeing The Lion King on Broadway with their family, affectionately known as the "GANG.” None of them could have predicted that this moment would mark the beginning of something so meaningful. Now, six years later, they’re preparing to celebrate a lifelong commitment. As a parent, her greatest wish has always been to see her child happy. And in Gianna and Chris, she sees exactly that—two people who bring joy and balance to each other. She feels incredibly lucky to be welcoming Chris into the family, noting that from the very first day she met him, he already felt like one of their own. With heartfelt sincerity, she wishes the couple a life full of laughter, deep friendship, and a love that grows only stronger with time.
David Mann
Stepfather of the Bride
Gianna, as you step into this beautiful new chapter of your life, my heart is filled with love, pride, and admiration for the woman you’ve become. I’ve watched you grow into someone strong, kind, respectful, and graceful (even if we use “adult” loosely!). I know you’ll carry those same qualities into this next step. I couldn’t be prouder of who you are, where you’ve been, and where your future will take you. Thank you for making me a better father and for giving me the love only a daughter can. May your marriage be a place where you feel cherished, understood, supported, and surrounded by laughter, respect, good food, and shared dreams. Wherever life leads, I will always be here for you. Chris (future son-in-law!), thank you for loving my daughter and choosing to walk beside her. It’s not always an easy walk, but it is a meaningful and committed one. As you begin this journey together, I trust you will honor her dreams, protect her heart, and stand by her through every joy and challenge. Be her rock when needed, and stay open to her feelings. I welcome you into our family with open arms and look forward to watching the two of you build a life filled with laughter, patience, understanding, and love. May you grow together, support one another, and create a future filled with happiness from today into all your tomorrows.