Wedding Party
Dave Truedson
Officiant
Justin’s Uncle Dave—affectionately known as “UD”—has always been more than just family; he’s a true friend and mentor. Whether they’re tailgating at a Patriots game with their season tickets, catching a Celtics or Bruins game in Boston, or grabbing a slice of New Haven pizza, Dave and Justin share a bond built on Boston sports, laughter, and meaningful advice. When it came time to choose someone to officiate their wedding, the decision was easy for both Justin and Alison. Uncle Dave has always been there—genuinely caring, constantly checking in, and supporting them every step of the way. Despite some hesitancy from his family, the soon-to-be newlyweds have complete confidence in him—and can’t wait to see him take on the role.
Karen Kulesa
Mother of the Bride
To anyone who knows them, it’s no surprise that Alison and her mom, Karen, are often told how alike they are. They share a love for discovering new coffee shops, hosting friends and family, and trying ambitious recipes they both know they probably won’t follow. But beyond their shared quirks, Alison deeply admires her mom’s strength and perseverance. After losing her husband, Karen maintained a joyful, loving childhood for her children—a true testament to her resilience. She would be the first to credit the incredible village around the Kulesa family, which is so reflective of her generous, community-centered spirit. Karen’s gift for focusing on the positive, making everyday moments feel special, and cultivating meaningful connections are just a few of the many reasons Alison looks up to her. Justin and Karen also get along so effortlessly—they’ve worked out the perfect system: Justin helps out with something around the house, and Karen cooks him one of his favorite meals… which, according to him, is pretty much anything she makes. It’s an honor for Alison to have her mom walk her down the aisle—a moment that reflects the strength, love, and bond they share.
Jeff & Linda Truedson
Parents of the Groom
The strong, dynamic personalities of Jeff and Linda are perfectly reflected in their son. Justin shares his dad’s ambitious, goofy spirit and love of all things tech, while his kind heart and thoughtful nature are undeniably influenced by his mom. But Jeff and Linda’s warmth and generosity aren’t reserved just for their children—they extend it to everyone around them. Whether it’s lending a hand to a lifelong friend or going out of their way for someone they’ve just met, their giving spirit shines through in everything they do. Alison felt right at home with the Truedson family from the very beginning, thanks to their open arms and welcoming hearts. These days, you’ll often find Alison and Linda being recognized by name at Crate & Barrel, while Jeff and Alison bond over work, goal-setting, and career growth. The love and energy Jeff and Linda bring to their family are felt by everyone lucky enough to be around them.
Sean O'Connor
Best Man
Justin and Sean first met in middle school, where they bonded over playing basketball— not very well. Over the years, their friendship grew stronger, and they reconnected more recently, just in time for Justin to stand by Sean's side as a groomsman at his wedding. Justin and Alison had an unforgettable time on Sean and Penny’s big day, making amazing new friends and soaking in all the love and joy from that day. Justin played a key role in planning Sean’s bachelor trip and even gave a heartfelt speech at the rehearsal dinner. The two couples truly cherish each other’s friendship through all stages of life and have been loving the most recent one, as Sean and Penny have recently welcomed their first baby, Theodore! Justin and Alison are utterly obsessed and wear the titles Auntie Al and Uncle J with pride. These days, they share a love of NASCAR and a mutual effort to enjoy Old Fashioneds—though they mostly drink them just to look cool.
Matt Truedson
Groomsman
Not only is Matt the brother of the groom, but he and Alison have formed an incredible bond of their own. Justin and Matt’s sibling dynamic is a perfect reflection of their shared sense of humor and quick wit. Each of them brings different strengths to the table—a true testament to the wonderful qualities instilled by their parents. Matt has an amazing circle of friends who have welcomed Alison with open arms, making her feel like one of their own from the start. Matt has an ability to make anyone around him feel welcomed and comfortable. Whether they’re pulling a practical joke on their parents or playfully making fun of each other, there’s never a dull moment—and always plenty of laughter for anyone lucky enough to be around them.
Jamison Kulesa
Groomsman
Brother of the bride—and almost as big of a Celtics fan as the groom—Jamison holds a special place in Alison and Justin’s lives. Alison feels incredibly lucky that her brother and fiancé not only get along, but genuinely enjoy each other’s company. They share the same kind heart and strong sense of loyalty—qualities that make their bond feel like family in every way. It was a true honor when Jamison asked Justin to be his best man in his wedding, a testament to the respect and connection they’ve built. Their friendship is easy, natural, and filled with mutual admiration (and plenty of Celtics talks).
Dion White
Groomsman
Though they first met at work, Dion and Justin’s friendship quickly grew into something much deeper. Dion once drove a long way just to help Justin and Alison move into their first apartment—a true reflection of the kind of loyal, thoughtful friend he is. Whenever they get together, laughter is guaranteed, and the support and thoughtfulness they show one another is something genuinely special. Alison and Justin feel incredibly honored and excited to be celebrating Dion and his fiancée Steph’s wedding in the South of France a few months after theirs—it’s sure to be an unforgettable celebration for an unforgettable friend.
Gabe Say
Groomsman
Justin and Gabe first met in high school and have stayed close ever since, carrying their friendship through college and into adulthood. Their steady respect and loyalty to one another over the years has been something truly special to witness. Whether they’re sharing travel tips, swapping food recommendations, or just catching up on life, their conversations are always full of energy and laughter. Through every stage of life, they’ve shown up for each other without hesitation—a true example of lasting friendship.
Maisie Festa
Maid of Honor
Maisie and Alison’s friendship began in a hilariously unforgettable way during their freshman year of high school—an encounter that perfectly foreshadowed their dynamic. From that moment on, Maisie has had a knack for making Alison laugh, often catching her off guard in the best way. The two have been inseparable ever since. Maisie helped Alison move into her college dorm and Alison visited Maisie the first weekend they were away at school. Alison makes Maisie feel better about the unknown of growing up by micromanaging and planning her life via Pinterest, while Maisie reminds Alison to slow down and enjoy the little things in life. Alison would be remiss not to mention an important friendship to her, Maisie’s boyfriend, Noah. The trio spent so much time together throughout high school they were named the Tres Amigos. The three were hesitant how a fourth amigo would fit in, but Justin did so effortlessly. Whether they're binge-watching their latest TLC obsession or aimlessly wandering through Target, one thing is always guaranteed: laughter, inside jokes, and the kind of friendship that only gets better with time.
Mackenzie Gizzie
Maid of Honor
Mackenzie and Alison met in high school and went to a Bryson Tiller concert together sophomore year before they were really even close friends. Since then, they have embarked on many adventures together from high school to college to starting their nursing careers. Mackenzie also helped Alison move into her college dorm and Alison also visited Mackenzie very early on into their first semester. Alison is known for calling Mackenzie during tough days at work to say “hi, sweetie,” a gesture that never fails to brighten her day. They’re famous among their coworkers for surprise Starbucks drop-offs and are always referred to as “best friends from high school”—a title they wear with pride.
Shay Murphy
Bridesmaid
Shay and Alison grew up dancing competitively together—an experience that created a one-of-a-kind bond. Shay (along with her mom and sister) played a big role in sparking Alison’s love for reality TV, something they still bond over with plenty of laughs and gossip sessions. Knowing no one would be more fun, Alison took Shay to her senior prom. While they’ve had their fair share of fun, some of their favorite memories are the car rides home after dance, where they’d open up and talk through life’s hardest moments. Alison doesn’t have a sister, but with Shay, it’s always felt pretty close.
Cara Andrews
Bridesmaid
Cara and Alison also share the special bond that comes from years of competitive dance—a connection so strong that Alison lovingly calls Cara’s mom “Mom #2,” and her mom calls Alison “Daughter #2.” From endless car rides to and from practice, to time spent together before and after dance, to traveling through Europe in high school, they’ve shared so many milestones side by side. With all the memories and time spent together, it’s no surprise that they don’t just feel like friends—they truly feel like family.
JJ Creswell
Bridesmaid
JJ—whom Alison affectionately calls “my sweet girl” and her “little cousin,” even though she’s definitely not so little anymore—is often described as Alison’s personality turned up to ten. Alison is both proud and a little intimidated by JJ’s bold spirit. She often says JJ taught her about true love, because they were put on this earth to have each other to go through life with—even if that means humbling one another along the way. As JJ begins her college journey, she jokes she thought Alison would always support her financially, while Alison playfully warns JJ that a bill is coming her way for all those Starbucks and Target runs. From quarantining together during the pandemic, to Alison driving over an hour after college classes to pick JJ up from middle school, they make the most of every moment—school night sleepovers, 7 a.m. school drop offs then back off to college classes for Alison. No matter what, they never get tired of each other and are always making each other laugh.
Lorea Snyder
Bridesmaid
Alison’s future sister-in-law, but really just another wonderful friend. Alison often says how lucky she feels that her brother found someone so amazing—and so much like her ;)—to share his life with. They click effortlessly, bonding over their love of hosting. Lorea is the yin to Alison’s yang—she’s the baker while Alison loves cooking. They’re always talking about a new recipe, restaurant, or tablescape they want to try. Together, they dream of writing a hosting cookbook once their wedding planning adventures are behind them. Alison was delighted when Lorea asked her to be a bridesmaid in her wedding that is only a few weeks before Justin & Alison’s!
Olivia Rajotte
Bridesmaid
Olivia and Alison met when they were just three years old in preschool—proof that even at that age, some friendships are meant to last a lifetime. Olivia’s quick wit has had Alison laughing for over two decades now. Looking back, it warms both of their hearts to remember sketching dream wedding dresses during childhood playdates has turned into Olivia standing by Alison’s side on her wedding day. They’ve been through every stage of life together—every high, every low—and their connection runs so deep, it’s hard to remember a time when they weren’t part of each other’s world, oh wait, there isn’t!
Briana Senese
Bridesmaid
Briana and Alison also met when they were just three years old—there must have been something in the water at St. Anthony School! Even when Bri moved away for a few years during elementary school, their bond didn’t skip a beat. They picked up right where they left off, like no time had passed at all. From attending different high schools and colleges to navigating adulthood, their friendship has remained a constant—rooted in love, admiration, and a deep appreciation for one another. These days, you can find them constantly conversing about wedding planning, sharing Pinterest inspiration and the latest drama, as Bri is in this stage of life as well!
Brielle Bargalla
Bridesmaid
Alison’s college roommate for all four years of undergrad—yet somehow, they never ran out of things to talk about. Alison often says she couldn’t have made it through nursing school without Brie by her side. From late-night Wendy’s runs and Cape Cod trips to their shared love of pickles and unique dorm decor (aka Brie trying to convince Alison to construct bunk beds for four years or their inflatable couch), Brie and Alison always knew exactly what the other needed. Brie would often have a fresh batch of cold brew waiting when Alison woke up from a nap, while Alison made sure they were always up to date on the latest tik tok dance trend to take a break from studying and relieve stress. Alison had the great honor of being a bridesmaid in Brie’s wedding and she cannot wait for Brie to be by her side on her big day.
Toni Grant
Bridesmaid
Though Toni never lived with Brie and Alison, you’d think she did from how much they all hung out. Whether she was across campus, across the hall, or living at home, the three were inseparable—so much so that they often wondered if anyone on campus had ever seen one of them without the others. Alison describes Toni as the friend who’s always in your corner, ready to defend you no matter what—a true ride-or-die. No matter how busy life gets, they’re always just a phone call away from one another to rant about their crazy days at work as nurses. Toni perfectly balances Alison’s type-A energy with her own chaotic-neutral spirit, making their friendship one-of-a-kind.
Joyce Creswell Betsy Creswell
Flower Grandmas
Alison was raised in a family led by strong, loving women on both sides, and she’s always known how lucky she is. She grew up with five grandparents—one grandmother on her dad’s side, and a rare four grandparents on her mom’s side—something she didn’t realize was unusual until much later in life. What’s always stood out to Alison is the way her mom’s parents set aside their differences to come together for holidays, vacations, and every family moment, creating a blended family full of love and mutual respect. Her mom’s mom and stepmom have grown into genuine friends over the years, setting an incredible example of grace and unity. So when Alison came across the idea on Pinterest to have grandmothers as flower girls, she knew instantly it was perfect for her family. These women have inspired her deeply and continue to show her what it means to be strong, compassionate, and endlessly supportive.
Jonathan Creswell
Usher
Jonathan is Alison’s first cousin, but growing up, being the same age as her brother, the Kulesa and Creswell cousins were inseparable and were often mistaken for siblings themselves. They share countless childhood memories and a deep appreciation for the close bond their families created. As life has gotten busier, that closeness has only become more meaningful, and they truly cherish every opportunity they have to spend time together now.
Nicole Truedson-Rivera
Usher
Nicole is Justin’s cousin and has spent many summers at the lake with him over the years. Now, Alison has grown to love those lake traditions just as much—especially their annual winter trips together. Whether they start the day with early-morning yoga or end the night by laughing over games by the fireplace, Justin and Alison always look forward to spending time with Nicole. Justin couldn't wait to help Nicole, and her wife, Marissa, move into their new home and help with any home improvement projects, while Alison cannot wait to welcome their little one this coming spring!
Marissa Truedson-Rivera
Usher
Marissa is Justin’s cousin by marriage—but you’d never know it from how well they get along. Nicole and Alison often joke that they shouldn’t be allowed to sit next to each other while out at dinner because of their shared childish humor. They’re also famously unapologetic about ordering a tall glass of milk with dessert—an iconic moment even captured in the Things to Do & Places to Eat section of the website. Time with Marissa is always filled with laughter and is bound to create new cherished memories. Justin and Alison look forward to spending even more time at the lake with her, Nicole, and their newest addition come the wedding weekend!
Christopher Truedson
Usher
When Chris shares his humor, it’s guaranteed to make the whole room laugh. Justin and Alison always cherish their time with him—especially memorable moments like Christmas, when he fully embraced their espresso martinis. They’re honored to have him be part of their wedding and look forward to spending even more time together up at the lake, making memories and sharing laughs.
Molly Diaz
First Dance Choreographer & Instructor
Molly and Alison first met when Alison was one of Molly’s dance students, and their bond formed almost instantly. What started as private lessons quickly turned into life chats and post-practice Dunkin runs. Even in high school, Alison never hesitated to offer her unfiltered opinions on Molly’s dating life—and now, years later, they’ve both found their perfect matches and have had the joy of watching each other’s love stories unfold. Through it all, Molly has become a trusted voice in Alison’s life. Whether it’s work, family, relationships, or wedding planning, Alison always turns to Molly for her “older sister” wisdom. That’s exactly why it felt so right to ask Molly to help with Alison and Justin’s first dance.