Wedding PartyWedding Party
Cassandra HardinCassandra Hardin
Matron of Honor
Cassandra and Joanna met at the University of Kentucky during a rush event for SAI, but they really bonded on a women’s choir trip to Italy, where they became instant soul sisters. They later lived together in college; Cassandra taught Joanna how to adult (like paying bills), and Joanna taught Cassandra about opera and fashion. Through every high and low, Cassandra has been the ultimate ride-or-die. She's family in every way, and Joanna can’t imagine this day without her by her side.
David GlazermanDavid Glazerman
Best Man
Nathan and Dave have known each other since Mrs. Sexton's Third Grade classroom. Throughout grade school, junior high, high school, and college, Nathan (as well as Sean Waugh, Jonathan Harvey, and Michael Van Pelt) spent quite a bit of time in Dave's parents' basement, playing Magic: The Gathering, watching movies so terrible they were good, and eating pizza rolls. Although Dave now lives on the other side of the country, the two remain close friends. After all, it is still, on occasion, time for Icee.
Emily SeedleEmily Seedle
Matron of Honor
Emily and Joanna met in their college dorms when Joanna and her mom peeked into Emily’s room because her fashion sense was too cool to ignore—oops. She went from “who’s this creeper?” to ride-or-die bestie in no time. They later lived together with Cassandra during college. Emily is the kind of friend who makes you laugh until you cry and always shows up when it counts. She’s a metal singer, multi-instrumentalist, and just the coolest person ever. Life is better with Emily in it.
Sean WaughSean Waugh
Groomsman
Nathan and Sean have known each other since Mrs. Sexton's Third Grade classroom. In a strange twist of fate, Nathan and Sean's parents moved to the same two neighborhoods at roughly the same time. So, throughout grade school, junior high, and high school, Nathan and Sean rode the same school bus and frequently visited each other's homes. In high school, when they weren't hanging out in Dave's parents' basement, Sean and Nathan also enjoyed playing music, being part of their school's jazz, concert, pep, and marching bands, as well as the pit orchestra. Sean and Nathan remain close friends, finding time to play games or visit local breweries.
Holly DodsonHolly Dodson
Bridesmaid
Joanna befriended Holly on the same Italy trip where she got close with Cassandra. She knew Holly beforehand, but had been too intimidated to talk to her because she is that talented of an opera singer. But once Joanna had the courage to talk to her, she realized Holly is not just insanely talented, she’s hilarious, weird in the best way, and has the warmest heart. They’ve shared music, deep chats, ridiculous adventures, and the bond of sisterhood. Joanna is so lucky to have her in her life (and her wedding party!).
Michael Van PeltMichael Van Pelt
Groomsman
Nathan and Mike have known each other since Mrs. Sexton's Third Grade classroom. With only a handful of exceptions, they were in the same classrooms until they graduated from high school. The two bonded over their love of Star Trek: The Next Generation, the saxophone, and Transformers. In high school, when they weren't hanging out in Dave's parents' basement, Mike and Nathan also enjoyed playing music, being part of every band their school offered. Although Mike now lives in New Jersey, Nathan and Mike still make time to catch up on the phone or to visit when Nathan and Joanna go back to NJ.
Amelia SmeltzerAmelia Smeltzer
Bridesmaid
Amelia came into Joanna’s life through Cassandra, and they instantly felt like kindred spirits. Amelia has a brilliant brain for history, an epic nerd energy (LOTR forever), and the kind of strength that inspires everyone around her. A few years ago, when life threw Joanna a curveball, Amelia and her amazing family opened their home to her—and she’ll never forget that. Amelia's a total powerhouse, a loyal friend, and someone Joanna is so proud to stand beside.
Jonathan HarveyJonathan Harvey
Groomsman
Although Jon was in a different grade at school, practically sharing a backyard with Mike quickly made up for it. In high school, when they weren't hanging out in Dave's parents' basement, Nathan and Jon also enjoyed playing and listening to music. Their mutual love of metal music, going to concerts, and bowling made them long-time friends. Jon and Nathan still get together for games or to go to a concert.
Mary FanMary Fan
Bridesmaid
Mary and Joanna go way back to high school, where Joanna was in Hello, Dolly! on stage and Mary was in the pit. Mary earned eternal friendship status by holding the curtain shut so Joanna can get wouldn’t have to change in front of everyone, true hero behavior. They had health class together and talked nonstop, but still always nailed the answers when the teacher tried to catch them off guard. They’ve been to tons of music festivals together and basically grew up side by side. Mary is an accomplished author, musician, composer, and aerialist. Joanna is honored to have Mary as her lifelong partner-in-chaos.
Jesse SchnurmanJesse Schnurman
Groomsman
Nathan met Jesse, Joanna's brother, when Nathan and Joanna started dating. They quickly found tons of common ground. From video games and the shooting range to spicy food and giving Joanna a hard time, Nathan and Jesse see eye to eye. Although, they've only known each other for a short time, they've become friends and brothers already.
Erica LaakerErica Laaker
Bridesmaid
Joanna met Erica in 2022 through a board game meetup Erica was running, and she immediately thought, “Wow, we look like each other in different fonts.” Their spooky styles and vibes matched instantly, and once they started hanging out one-on-one, Joanna realized they had even more in common (even their shared Jewish heritage!). Erica is a brilliant business owner and improv actor, and just an overall radiant human being. Making a new best friend as an adult is rare, and Joanna hit the jackpot with Erica.
Jonathan CaiolaJonathan Caiola
Groomsman
When Nathan and Joanna visited J.D., Joanna's cousin, and Alison in Massachusetts, Nathan didn't expect to make a new friend. But, after learning that J.D. starred in some of Nathan's favorite childhood movies (the "Mighty Ducks" series) and is a fellow martial artist, the two became close. Nathan and J.D. share an admiration for Bruce Lee, a love of good movies, and an enjoyment of old-school video games.
Mila SmeltzerMila Smeltzer
Flower Girl
River SeedleRiver Seedle
Ring Bearer
Alison CaiolaAlison Caiola
Officiant
Joanna and Nathan are honored that Joanna’s aunt will be officiating their wedding!
