Lisa & Jesse
Wedding Party
Emma
Maid of Honor
Emma and I met while waitressing and bartending our way through college. To be honest, we didn’t like each other at first but quickly realized we’re a whole lot of fun together! After becoming roommates in our third floor apartment in downtown New Haven, Emma became one of my best friends. We’ve since shared many hilarious memories together from day trips, wine and HGTV marathons, night-outs, and living room karaoke sessions. I am so proud of the person she’s become and honored to have her as my MOH. Emma is charismatic, independent, strong, and reliable. I couldn’t imagine my wedding day without her by my side.
Taylor
Best Man
Taylor and I met our freshman year of high school, and quickly became fast friends. Taylor's dedication and loyalty to those closest to them is one of his most admirable qualities, and he always shows up when he's needed, no matter how large or small. Even after Lisa and I moved out to Michigan, Taylor has consistently made the long drive out - often on his own- to spend a holiday or summer weekend with us. I know it doesn't sound like much, but for us, it meant everything. Taylor has been one of the greatest friends I could have asked for, and I am proud to have him stand with me as my best man.
Jessalyn
Bridesmaid
Once the new girls in elementary school, Jessalyn and I bonded over not knowing anyone in our small town. At some point, we decided it would be fun to hang out to paint nails and watch Harry Potter movies. Our friendship blossomed through the years and remained constant in each other’s lives while always being supportive, even from the sidelines. Jessalyn is strong-willed, an avid bookworm and makeup guru. She doesn’t hold back and I know she always has my back. I’m thrilled to have my constant friend next to me on the big day!
Cody
Groomsman
I've known Cody longer than he's known himself. Sure, that's largely due to the fact that I had the privilege of being born first, but there's no need to get into semantics. Cody and I shared just about every hobby growing up, so we always had each other as a teammate, collaborator, and competitor. Even now, we still find time to connect and game together, or just spend a few minutes talking beers.
Meghan
Bridesmaid
I met Meghan in third grade but grew closer from performing in marching band together. Growing up, we would have campouts in our backyards and swim in Meghan’s pool. In college and as adults, we’d go on impromptu shopping dates, go to taco Tuesdays at the only “cool” bar in our small hometown to drink $2 PBR, picnic at a winery, and spend summer weekends at country concerts. Within 3 months of me moving to Michigan, I became homesick so Meghan drove all the way out to visit. Meghan has always been a reliable and honest friend who has shown how caring she is time and time again. Now, even miles apart, Meghan has been my go-to person to vent about being a new nurse, as Meghan has 5+ years of pediatric nursing under her belt. I am excited to have Meghan stand next to me as I tie the knot!
Keith
Groomsman
Despite being a year ahead of us, Keith and I became close friends during our time in high school. Though we don't spend our afternoons playing big games of battlecruiser magic anymore, Keith and I still find opportunities to wax poetic over our mutual love of beers and all things nerdy.
Laura
Bridesmaid
I met Laura in sixth grade during history class where we could not stop giggling and passing notes - written in neon gel pen and folded into paper footballs. We went from getting in trouble for giggling in school to getting in trouble for giggling too much during sleepovers at each other’s houses. We don’t see each other as often as I’d like but when we finally reunite, it’s non-stop laughing! Laura has always been there whenever needed; understanding, kind, and level-headed, she’s always there to give the best advice. Just as we promised many years ago, I can’t picture getting married without her in my bridal party!
Sam
Groomsman
During a PE class my freshman year, I noticed a Magic: The Gathering series book on the bleachers. Naturally, I loudly asked to whom it belonged to, and Sam chimed in with ownership - thereby ensuring that we became instant friends and cementing us as massive nerds. It was all of the "nerdy" stuff that Sam and I shared, and he's always made me feel better about indulging in those passions. Sam and I are in constant communication - even when we were separated by hundreds of miles and occasionally several time zones. Even now, as a new dad, Sam and I continue to find the time to catch up and chat - even if its mostly about how the mere existence of the color green is ruining magic.
Fior
Bridesmaid
Fior and I met in our boring college physics class at SCSU. Although we didn’t like each other at first, we were often in a lot of the same classes and began studying together. Those study sessions became us hanging out and we quickly became great friends. From occasionally skipping class to go to the beach to pulling all nighters cramming for a test, we always had a blast. Margaritas aren’t the same without her! Fior is the friend that would bail me out of jail, say something sassy, and ask zero questions. She’s helped me move and has made the road trip out to Michigan to surprise me. Fior is determined, passionate, and talented in so many ways. I am lucky to have her alongside me on my wedding day.
Mick
Groomsman
Mick has the unique accomplishment of being one of only people that has actually willingly lived with me. Our time together in that apartment on Meadowside is time that I will always look back on with fond memories. Mick encourages me to flex my creative muscles, and some of the projects I've worked on with him still make me wheeze laughing. He has an absolutely incredible level of drive and determination that has seen him a lot of success and continues to inspire me to keep pursuing my dreams.