Maid of Honor
Karalyn has been a part of my life since 1994 when she was born and I became her big sister. Although I wasn't thrilled to share my mom and dad with someone else at first, in the long run it all worked out. People say we are very different, but we need each other for balance - Karalyn keeps me grounded, and I remind her that it’s okay to let loose sometimes! I'm so happy I have the relationship that I do with my sister, and I can't imagine my life without her. As stressful as my Maid of Honor duties can be at times, I'm very excited to be standing by her side for her wedding day, and I couldn't be more thrilled with her choice in a life partner!
Best Man
I have known Jordan since sophomore year of high school, although we didn't become close friends until later. After high school we both attended the Criminal Justice program at JCC, and later attended the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Academy together. During this time I slowly won Jordan over with my boyish charm and quick wits. It is said to this day that Jordan still waits for me to be late to everything and that he hasn't figured out how to use the temperature controls in his car. Since the days at the academy Jordan has become one of my best friends. He is my partner at work who I know has my back through thick and thin. I am honored that he chose me to stand by him and have his back on his wedding day.
Maid of Honor
Karalyn is not only my big sister, she is my protector. She has always taken care of me and made sure I’m my absolute best, whether it’s for school, work or just in life. She can be a handful, but I always know we are there for each other at the end of the day. Karalyn, thank you for being my sister, best friend, and protector all in one.
Best Man
I met Jordan in sixth grade by the simple fact that we both liked drinking Code Red Mountain Dew after school. Our friendship has grown from there and we have been best friends ever since. Jordan is the definition of a great friend and has been an example of what you should be as a person. Jordan and Karalyn’s love for each other is something special and I couldn’t imagine them without one another. Being married means becoming united as one and the only thing changing is that they are making it official. Karalyn and Jordan, congratulations and thanks for being great friends even when I ring the doorbell knowing you’re in the living room. On that note, let’s take shots!
Bridesmaid
Karalyn and I met and bonded for the first time over an $18 glass of wine I accidentally bought in 2017. Since then, we’ve shared many (much cheaper) glasses of wine and lots of pie. We’ve accomplished a lot in our short friendship: a half marathon, our MBAs, and countless laughs and adventures. I’m so happy to be a part of Karalyn and Jordan’s special day, and I can’t wait to celebrate!
Groomsman
I met Jordan back in middle school. The first time we hung out we decided to go see the movie Meet the Spartans but the theater had switched out the movie for 27 Dresses instead. This was one of the first things we laughed about and the laughter hasn’t stopped since. Even though I live two hours away now, Jordan and I have a friendship that feels like nothing has changed each time we meet back up. I am so excited to watch Jordan marry the love of his life!
Bridesmaid
Karalyn and I became friends in college, and became better friends after working together at St. Bonaventure. Between us and (some of) the sisters (Mia and Kaitlyn) it is always a fun time with the Anastasias/Augostinis for book club nights in and happy hour nights out! Karalyn and I also love bonding over wine, being dog moms, and the “police-wife life.”
Groomsman
I have known Jordan for almost 15 years and I have known Karalyn for slightly over 20 years, they’re two of my oldest and closest friends. Growing up in Olean would never have been the same without them, nor would there be as many great stories and memories over the years. In high school Karalyn, Jordan, Shawn and myself referred to our friend group as the “Wolf Pack,” which is still something we refer to today. I couldn’t be more happy for Jordan and Karalyn, I wish them every happiness in life!
Bridesmaid
Karalyn and I first met in gym class sophomore year of high school. We initially bonded since we would opt out of playing whatever the sport was and would walk together and gossip instead. We became fast friends and there was never a dull moment such as sketchy parties in the middle of the woods, skipping study hall and even getting heart lip tattoos when we turned 18. I remember the first couple times hanging out with Karalyn and Jordan and knew it was something special. I can’t wait to stand by Karalyn’s side on her most important day.
Groomsman
I met Jordan and Karalyn in 6th grade. Jordan and I used to argue about him picking crappy teams (go Bills and Yanks). Played football with Jordan. Stayed in touch ever since.
Bridesmaid
From the moment that Jordan was born I have had a forever best friend and “little” brother to push around. Whether it be dragging him out to play in the mud, playing football with the boys, or driving around late in the car with the dog he always can make me laugh. When Karalyn entered the picture I knew she was the one for Jordan. She could make him laugh and blush all at once. Karalyn has always been a part of the Abdo family and her marrying my best friend now makes us forever sisters. I am honored to be a part of their special day and am excited for my beautiful niece pups to not have hyphenated last names. Thank you for always loving and caring for my brother!
Groomsman
I have known Jordan since 2002 when we played little league baseball together. We also played football together in high school. Jordan is one of my best friends and I get to call him my brother (in-law). Congrats Jordan and Karalyn. Welcome to the family!
Ring Bearer
Collin is Karalyn and Jordan's Godson. He is very excited to be a part of their special day and proud that his Godparents trusted him with the big responsibility of carrying their rings down the aisle!
Flower Girl
Abigail is the daughter of Jordan and Karalyn's good friends, Danny and Trinity Williams. She is excited to dress up like a princess, and keeps asking when she gets to walk down the aisle with flowers. She is very thankful to be included in the special day of "Uncle" Jordan and "Aunt" Karalyn!
Pups of Honor
We are Karalyn and Jordan's baby girls who they adore more than anything in this world. We are very lucky to have such loving parents and we can't wait to see our mommy and daddy finally get married! We feel so honored that we get to be a part of their special day!
Officiant
I met Karalyn when she was in middle school with my son. I was so happy that they became good friends. I met Jordan when they were juniors and instantly bonded with him since he reminded me so much of my older son. Karalyn and Jordan were together for all the dance photos, game nights and a few “awkward” teenage moments with the gang at our house. Each moment with them was fun and always entertaining. As they grew from high school sweethearts to incredible adults, it has been amazing to have these wonderful friends. I can’t wait to see them become husband and wife and am so honored (and surprised!) to have been asked to be part of their day by officiating the ceremony. I’m so excited to celebrate and see what their future has in store. Or, rather, what they have in store for the future!
Mother of the Bride
“Every great love starts with a great story.” Karalyn, you are one of my great stories. I can remember waiting for your arrival. What would you look like? Would you be healthy? Would you sleep through the night? No, you wouldn’t. From the time you were born, I knew you would be a welcome challenge. The trips to the hospital from reactions to bee stings and sun poisoning; to working with you on your studies and arguing with you that not everything needs to be perfect. Life isn’t perfect, but it is what you make of the imperfections that count. Your smile and sense of humor that no one can ever replace. Your sense of pride, ambition, and tenacity compares to no one. I am so proud of the woman you have become. Jordan, you are the continuation of the story, and I’m so happy to call you my son.
Mother of the Groom
From day one I knew we were in for a ride of a lifetime with Jordan. The multiple trips to emergency rooms, endless days and nights of no sleep. Our life revolved around the sound of a vacuum cleaner, making sure his food didn’t touch, and his silverware was not sticky. Who knew this young man that threw our world into a whirlwind would make everyone that he meets into a friend and make them feel as special as they are. Jordan’s infatuation with Santa and years of passing out presents at family Christmas has lead this Santa to find his perfect Mrs. Claus. The two of them will start their lives together as husband and wife, best friends, in front of all the family and friends that love to hear them laugh and tease each other.
Father of the Bride
For those who may not know, Karalyn's nickname is "Rosebud," my Beautiful Little Rosebud - BLRB for short. When I think of Karalyn growing up a few things stick out: Karalyn was my "low-maintenance" daughter. Never had to pick up after her; didn't lose much hair over her. She was obsessed with school & highly organized. I never had to remind Karalyn to do her homework or study for a test. In fact, I had to tell her to pull back a little and relax. This impressive work ethic paid off as she was an honors student throughout her school years, as well as the commencement speaker at her graduation from SBU. I have a special place in my heart for my Rosebud & I am extremely proud to be her father! She hit a "home run" choosing Jordan to share her life with - possibly her greatest accomplishment!
Father of the Groom
The last 24 years with you, my son, has been a roller coaster of good times and bad. Hours of screaming and not sleeping wore on everyone’s nerves but the time came that we could do the things a father and son are meant to do. Looking back at the little league teams that I had the privilege of coaching and watching you play baseball and football in high school makes me know that it was worth the time to watch you grow in to the man you are today. It was an amazing journey from a boy to a man that is going to take a step into adulthood and marry his best friend. I am very excited to celebrate your's and Karalyn's special day. Once that wedding comes the “dad hotline” for help will be turned off - welcome to adulthood!