Wedding Party
Karlina Kauffman
Matron of Honor
My name is Karlina Kauffman and the first time I met Melanie was in the hospital. She had just undergone the highly traumatic experience of being born into this world, and I was six and just excited to see my mom and new little sister. Now, over a quarter of a century later (or almost three decades later, take your pick), I’m excited to watch that baby sister get married! Welcome to the family Eric! Can’t wait to celebrate with you both!
Michael Lester
Best Man
Hey all! Michael is the name, using AI to generate intros is the game. Joking... I currently have a beautiful wife, Sarah, and a brilliant step-daughter, Tristyn. I graduated with a Computer Engineering degree, went into cybersecurity, and have been securing factories, powerplants, and various other critical infrastructure since 2015. I've had the honor of knowing and befriending Eric in 2010. I guess I was drawn to intelligence, and him to beauty (I see that hasn't changed ). We met while attending a community college and car pooled often and throughout the years, our love grew from there our friendship grew and we lived together when we transferred to our alma mater, MS&T, for 2.5 years. We had some pretty awesome times, that I probably don't remember all of... Although careers kept us apart after college, we always stayed in touch and even went to Japan for a few weeks together. I'm incredibly grateful to be a part of Eric and Melanie's special day and can't wait to meet everyone in person!
Natalie Kauffman
Maid of Honor
Hi – I’m Natalie! As the bride’s youngest sister, I’ve had the privilege of knowing Melanie for my entire life. After all, the absolute best day of her life was the day I was born (right, Mel?). Jokes aside, Mel has been a constant source of light in my life, impacting my sense of humor and teaching me how to survive in Star Wars Battlefront without getting the title of “Bantha Fodder.” She also took me to my first concert (shout out Waterparks!). It’s fascinating to hear stories about the first time people met her because to me, she’s just always been there—a glorious goofball. I couldn’t ask for a better middle sister. Even though we live far apart now, we’re still as close as ever. And then there’s Eric. (This is where I’d talk some smack—but I won’t!) Eric is truly wonderful. He matches Melanie’s energy while also keeping her grounded. I think back to the meaningful moments we’ve had together, like going to Sad Summer Fest and sharing holiday dinners. Eric has only added to the delightful chaos that is the Kauffman Circus. As for me, I’m currently living in Philadelphia, working at the Wharton School, and trying to survive the ups and downs of graduate school applications (please, do not ask!). Mel and Eric, you are two incredibly lucky people. Happy Wedding!
Ryan Carlson
Brother of the Groom
Hello there, I’m Ryan Carlson. If you couldn’t tell by the last name, I have the “unfortunate” pleasure to be the younger brother of Eric. I’m currently in the struggle of my last year of college at Mizzou to be a mechanical and aerospace engineer and are currently working on model plane for the AIAA Design, Build, Fly competition. In terms of what I’m about, I love being outdoors, almost anything nerdy, and my current obsession is fencing and HEMA. Thinking that my brother is getting married still surprises me every time I think about it. It feels like just yesterday that I was waiting for him to get off Skyrim so I could play it. I’m so happy for Melanie and Eric and wish them the best!
Marianne Brown
Matron of Honor
Mel and I met through work back in 2019, but it didn’t take long for us to move from colleagues to friends. I have never met anyone who quite gets my humor the way that she does. Over our friendship I have introduced Mel to wonders such as sushi, grilled cheese, and living with a large dog (you're welcome Eric). I am originally from Ohio, but currently live in Pittsburgh with my husband and our two cats. I can usually be found with a book or knitting project in hand. I am looking forward to a lifetime of movie nights with charcuterie boards while our husbands play video games in the other room.
Haven Carlson
Brother of the Groom
My name is Haven P Carlson, I am the oldest brother of Eric. From a young age, Eric was always reading books, from fantasy to the encyclopedia. So when I met Melanie, I knew that he found his partner. I cannot wait to celebrate the joining of the two together.
Jaime Emerson
Bridesmaid
You turned her against me! You have done that yourself. You will not take her from me! Your anger and lust for power have already done that. You have allowed this dark lord to twist your mind, until now, until now you've become the very thing you swore to destroy. Don't lecture me, Obi-Wan! I see through the lies of the Jedi. I do not fear the dark side as you do. I have brought *peace*, *freedom*, *justice*, and *security* to my new Empire! YOUR NEW EMPIRE? Don't make me kill you. Anakin, my allegiance is to the Republic, to DEMOCRACY! If you're not with me, then you're my enemy. Only a Sith deals in absolutes. I will do what I must. You will try. (photo of obiwan squatting by anakin circa ten minutes later)
Matthew Emerson
Groomsman
Greetings and blessed salutations, everyone! My name is Matthew Emerson, and I had the pleasure of meeting Melanie my first day of college ever. She is literally the second friend I made that day. We've seen each other through smiles, tears, and everything in between. While what I treasure most about her is our friendship that begun at the beginning of both our adult lives, the second thing I treasure most about her is that she introduced me to Eric. Within minutes of laying eyes on him, I knew I was destined to be obsessed with him and haunt his shadow anytime I'm in a room with him. I've never met a kinder soul, and watching his and Mel's love blossom has been one of my greatest joys. There are few things in this world to be certain of, but I am certain that our bond of fellowship will never break.
Gailan Williams
Bridesmaid
Hello! My name is Gailan, you can call me Gailan, because that's my name. I met Mel many years ago in college, but it wasn't until we both graduated when we both became good friends. When she left I thought I missed my opportunity to become closer with her. Thankfully that wasn't the case! We became friends! Great friends even if I could be so bold. We bonded over our shared loves of period dramas, musicals, and overall being complete muppets together. Getting to know Mel better has been a real treat and I am so very glad we are in eachothers lives. Mel was at my own wedding party and I am honored and ecstatic to return the favor and partay. She really is one of the sweetest people I know, and that's a fact. A ROCK FACT. Something else that is true is that when Mel introduced us all to Eric we immediately realized that they would be the most perfect pairing ever. And also realized that all our boyfriends were going to be obsessed with him. (They still are). It really was amazing to watch Mel and Erics relationship develop to where it is now, they really are the definition of soulmates! I'm so excited to be a part of their special day! I can't wait!
Daniel Sullenberger
Groomsman
Hello, my name's Dan! I've known Mel since 2016. Despite us both going to different colleges, common friends helped us form a strong bond consisting of nerdiness and the love of all things music. This led to the formation of the best band to exist and play one show on a single evening (keep an eye out for our reunion tour). Mel has been an important staple in my life, from going on spontaneous trips to New York, working at the same company, to going to concerts together. Mel introduced me to Eric in 2022, and we instantly formed a strong connection. I think we all knew early on that Mel and Eric were meant to be, and watching their love bloom and seeing how happy they make each other is so heartwarming. I'm very thankful to be included in helping them celebrate their special day! You'll see me out on the dance floor with my soon-to-be-bride Gailan, and yes, she will be dancing much better than me!
Journie Crutchman
Bridesmaid
Hello, I’m Journie Crutchman! Mel and I met through mutual friends many moons ago, but our friendship really took off 2 years ago when we became D&D campaign members. We bonded over our shared love of musicals and long rambling walks through our feelings. Along the way, Mel introduced Eric to the party, and I gained another wonderful close friend! I’m excited to celebrate their awesome love!
Dylan Prevost
Groomsman
I met Eric at MS&T, in one of those "inspiring, whimsical professor" classes. We found we shared many of the same sentiments about life and death and the cosmos. Lifelong friend ever since.
Sophia Stewart
Bridesmaid
Hi! I’m Sophie, and I was lucky enough to meet Mel at work. Our friendship really took off when our office moved, and we shared a cube wall. Between the music, weird noises, complaints, and endless TikToks, we bonded quickly. When I (sadly) left that job, I felt like I was leaving behind not just an incredible team but a true friend in Mel. Luckily, she had other plans! Mel made sure to call me often, catching me up on life and work drama, and I don’t think she knows just how much that meant to me. Her persistence kept us connected, and I’m forever grateful for her ability to keep our friendship strong. As for Eric, I couldn’t have imagined a better match for Mel. Watching the two of them together feels like they’ve been a perfect team from the start. I’m so excited for all the future hangouts, movie nights, and adventures we’ll share together. Love you both!
Cole Trioblet
Groomsman
Meowdy everyone, Nicholas Tribolet here, everyone calls me Cole. Resident cat-dad Electrician with a love for all board and roleplaying games, card games and good tv shows. I've had the absolute pleasure of knowing Eric since middle school. He's been such a shining example of what a good person is. I can't wait to get to know everyone and see all the interconnecting stories and memories.
Page James
Bridesmaid
Hi! I’m Page! I’ve know Mel since the 5th grade, but I don’t math well so let’s just say a really long time. Over the years I’ve watched our friendship grow into something so special. She has been there for every single major event in my life, and has supported me through every high and low. We have so many great memories that I truly could not fit them all into a short paragraph. These are memories I hold so close to me, and I’m so glad I can make more with her and that my son can now be part of these memories too. He loves Melanie and it warms my heart to see my own child love her. I can tell you that Melanie is one of the most selfless people I have ever met, with a heart of absolute gold. Through our senior year of high school Melanie would write me letters during special events detailing how much our friendship meant and providing me encouragement. I have kept every single one, because those words still help me today. When Mel told me about Eric, I was so happy for her. I had the pleasure of meeting Eric after they started dating. I could see how compatible they were, like two peas in a pod! Watching their love grow has felt like such a privilege, because it’s truly a love like no other. I’m so excited to be part of their special day, and to see them become Mr. and Mrs. Oh, and of course the best part…DANCING TO AWESOME MUSIC!!! (Picture features Page's son - Stevie!)
Tyler Shipley
Groomsman
Greetings! My name is Tyler, I'm a Sagittarius, I enjoy long walks on the beach, and the way to my heart is... wait this isn't that kind of introduction? Well, allow me to try again..... Hello, my name is Tyler. I had the pleasure of meeting Eric in grade school, and I consider him one of my first true friends—always reliable and supportive. He has an exceptional ability to bring humor to any situation, often finding ways to check in and genuinely care about others' feelings. Over the years, I've witnessed Eric navigate life's challenges with resilience. However, everything changed when Mel entered the picture; her energy perfectly complements his, bringing even more joy into his life. Mel has actively fostered our friendship and consistently shares delightful moments of their relationship. I often tell them, “I love your love,” as they truly exemplify what a strong partnership should be. Picture features the Kansas City Bois - Eric, Tyler, & Forbes (left to right).
Kasia Baldwin
Bridesmaid
Hey y’all! I’m Kasia! Pronounced like Russia but with a K! I had the pleasure of meeting Melanie when I transferred to Conemaugh Township High School in 9th grade. In typical Melanie fashion she broke the ice with “do you know how to say Township backwards?” (I didn’t) “It’s Pihsnwot.” Uh YEEEAH I knew we had to become friends. Sure enough, 14 years later we’re still locked in and there isn’t another person I’d want to watch annihilate a claw machine so hard that she draws a crowd. Seriously, she took “bE tHe CrAnE” to a whole new level! So when she mentioned meeting Eric I was PRAYING he could match her one of a kind energy, and boyyyyy he does. The first time I met Eric I was doing his face paint for the Ghost concert while Mel was getting ready upstairs. He spoke about her in a way that changed my whole perspective on love and even though he didn’t tell me, I wasn’t surprised that he proposed a month later. I think it’s pretty rare to click with a best friend’s significant other right away but I truly felt like Eric was everything I loved about Melanie in another humanoid. I CANNOT WAIT for this wedding and if you need to find me that day, I’ll either be sobbing my eyes out with tears of happiness, making a fool of myself on the dance floor, or making sure her makeup stays perfect ALL night long!
Alexander Forbes
Groomsman
A room full of Sled-Dogs is actually called a Mush-room… Now with the Dad joke out of the way, My name is Alexander Forbes, but my friends call me Forbsy. I met Eric several years ago when I was welcomed into a wonderful group of friends, which is also how I met my beautiful wife Megan and now about to celebrate our first child come December 2024. Eric has been nothing but a positive influence on my life and his advice has always been taken to heart. When Eric first brought Mel around, she was welcomed in the only fashion deemed worthy, by having her play a good ole fashioned Board Game! She is fun and kind hearted, matching Eric stride for stride. I wish them all the best, to cherish each other, and to know true love’s resilience.
