THE KARAMONTES
Karamonte Pod
Mike Coroso
Best Man
“Sometimes life can be a handful, but that’s why we have two hands.” Some of the best things about Mike: He is always available for a fashion tutorial. The irony of his nut allergy. All his tea and all his shade. There was no clearer choice other than Mike for such a key role in the Karamonte Wedding Pod. Mike brings a calmness that diffuses any conflict, and a level-headedness that helps to ground you in stressful situations. At the same time, he also has a radiant energy that is lighthearted, and instills positivity in anyone who has the pleasure to share his company. Mike is the equilibrium of high energy, and chill vibes; a perfect balance to be a leader in our Pod.
Alex Barbosa Cerone
Best Man
"Sometimes, even the devil on my shoulder has to stop and ask: 'What on Earth are you doing?'" Some of the best things about Alex: His sarcastic humor whether you know he’s being sarcastic or not. His ability to challenge you for better or worse. His undying protective nature for those he cares about. Alex was the first person to give Mark the confidence to be his authentic self, and showed him the ways of the gay agenda. They were roommates for 8 years, moved to Boston together, and share a love for the Miami Dolphins with their annual home opener weekend trips. Alex takes great enjoyment in scaring the crap out of Mark to his literal collapse.
Meaghan Schultheis
Groomslady
"Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face." Some of the best things about Meg: She has the most caring heart. She speaks her mind fearlessly yet thoughtfully. She either has or will have the best recipe for literally anything. There are so many reasons why we chose Meg to be part of our Wedding Pod, but the most apparent was her infectious positivity. She has a long standing history of being a true friend, and making a safe, and welcoming space for all. A prime example of Meg's supportive energy is that she was the first person that EJ came out to. Meg’s comforting presence helps eliminate anxiety in any given situation; an enormous quality that will be highly valued leading up to our big day.
Tanisha Lyew Sang
Best Judy
"Play dumb games, win dumb prizes." Some of the best things about Tanisha: She is ready to go to bat for you at the drop of a hat. Her keen sense of knowing if something is bothering you. Her love/hate relationship with Shawn, Deb, and Oliver. While Tanisha, and Mark started off on a heated foot at Burlington Wegmans, it was sharing mutual friends that made them realize they were meant to be a dynamic duo. Both leaned on each other during a difficult year in 2019, they found a strength in each other, themselves, and frozen yogurt from Yogurt Beach that makes them unstoppable today. Tanisha, and Mark are thick as thieves, and know exactly what the other is thinking without saying a word. "Judy" was a code word (in reference to Judy Garland) used in the 1940s for gay men to communicate with each other; however, as the years went on, it evolved into a term of endearment for a close or treasured friend, such as Tanisha.
Austin Abiddi
Groomslady
"God knew I would be too powerful if I could do math." Some of the best things about Austin: She is a literal vibe. Her razor sharp wit. She will save you when you are dying*. Austin was selected to be a member of the Karamonte Wedding Pod for her supremely unique set of skills. Austin has often been a vault - a confidant for many secrets over the years, and is praised for her trustworthiness. She is also the type of person that will meet and exceed your expectations in anything she does for you. Additionally, she has served faithfully, and supremely as a wing-woman, in which her abilities are unmatched. Austin is always ready to be the Bonnie to your Clyde, and is the ultimate definition of ride or die.
Jackie Shillington
Groomslady
“You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” Some of the best things about Jackie: Her love of your shared favorite movies, and movie quotes. Her spontaneous nature to have a good time with the enhancement of ridiculous attire. Her unwavering passion for the Green Bay Packers even if they choke every year in the playoffs. Mark first met Jackie through Alex, and they've developed a bond that they sum up with one title: 'Roomabrosisbfbabe TM.' Jackie was the catalyst to bring Mark to Boston in 2011 before leaving him and Alex with the Boston Marathon bombers in Watertown (a few hours before they went into lockdown) when she moved back to Rochester in April 2013. Teddy and Eli's Mom will be the first person to help you pick on Alex by making the delicious snack of pickles supreme, and help you put up lasers to protect you from the bad people.
Shannon Fitzgerald
Groomslady
“Be like the sun. Keep on shining and let them burn.“ Some of the best things about Shannon: She is always ready to match a chaotic energy. You can count on her to be down to fangirl over Zendaya. She is an expert at falling into rivers. Shannon was chosen to be a part of the Karamonte Wedding Pod because of her keen ability to read the room, and amplify the ambiance; she does this with such an easy going demeanor. Shannon is the swiss army knife of friends because if you want to dance, then buckle up because you are going to dance. Inversely, if you wanted to have a night in and drink wine while watching Call Me By Your Name for the 83th time, she is absolutely your girl. While she might be the newest member of this group, she has whole-heartedly become a treasured friend.
Russ Thomas
Groomsman
“Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.” Some of the best things about Russ: His depth of sports knowledge. Being the best beach volleyball partner keeping our undefeated streak alive. His embracement of who you are despite whatever you’re passionate about…even if you’re a Jets fan. Russ was an original member of the Miami Dolphins Fans of Boston that Mark co-founded in 2012. Through their love of the Miami Dolphins, Russ, and Mark formed a brotherhood clearly depicted in their iconic photo from Russ' wedding. 'Aidenssuperfunnyandcooldad' is as genuine as they come, but don't let his good looks fool you into letting your guard down when it comes to his savage, comedic timing.
Taryn Gabbay
Groomslady
“Put me in coach!” Some of the best things about Taryn: She is the best beach partner. Her authenticity is sincere, and powerful. She will battle the crazies with you. Taryn, and EJ are a prime example of how forced togetherness can lead to long lasting friendships. Taryn was one of EJ's roommates when he first moved to Boston, and through the first half of the COVID-19 pandemic. Uncertain times can be unsettling, but when you have good people to share those experiences, it is a little less daunting. Taryn always knew a way to brighten the mood, whether it was cooking awesome family meals from scratch, or taking a long hike for fresh air. Her ability to have a positive, yet realistic outlook on life is what truly sets her apart, and is an example that everyone should strive for.
Erica Thomas
Groomslady
"The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts." Some of the best things about Erica: Her love for F•R•I•E•N•D•S, and of friends. Her observant eye for noticing what many miss. Her ability to always keep things light, and fun. Erica met Mark through her husband, Russ, and had no choice in becoming a Miami Dolphins fan. Erica, Mark's 'Heads Up' partner for life, has always been a huge support system for Mark, even if it causes him to throw up on their first Florida trip together (no, it was not alcohol related). The proud mother of Aiden Thomas will "PIVOT!" heaven, and earth for those who have become her lifetime "lobsters."