Matthew & Richard
Bro-dal Party
Tony Warnemuende
Groomsman
Saint Johns, MI USA Matt and Tony have been best friends since their elementary school days, and have a bond that verges on siblings. One feature of their friendship that is notable is how different they are: Tony, tall and strong; Matt, short and meek (says Rich). Tony & Rich met in Madison, WI, where he and Matt agreed to meet to run a half marathon together in the peak of muggy, summer heat. Whether a 50-lb luggage bag of favorite, MI beer, or a secret Rich-Warno scheme effort to surprise Matt for a milestone birthday, Tony’s always been supportive in every way, and is always down for an escapade, or two!
Haley Warnemuende
Groomswoman
Saint Johns, MI USA Haley and Matt go back to high-school, working days at Independent Village of Frankenmuth (it’s even where she met another special-someone on this list). Rich and Haley got to meet (finally) at Rich’s first (of oh-so-many) trips to Michigan -err .."Rich-igan". They instantly hit it off - bonding over a love of cats and teasing Matt & Tony - their friendship was cemented after they raved it up together on the dance floor at -her- wedding. Always with the biggest smile, and most sincere laugh in the room, “Nurse Haley” will be our go-to for any dance-floor injuries.
Sean S trange
Groomsman
Bournemouth, Dorset UK Rich and Sean met on the scene years ago, and have been together through it all: work changes, life events, relationships coming and going, and just plain ole fun! Sean, a seaside Englishman, loves EDM, and specialty cocktails. Matt finally met Sean during his first trip to ‘meet the in-laws’ in 2021, and of course that meant Sean, too. He’s simply the sweetest. Even though Rich and Sean are 5000+ miles apart, their friendship still grows. They prioritize visiting each other whenever they can..no matter the continent.
S hilo Powers
Groomswoman
Sparks, NV USA Our multi-colored hair, 'sister from another mister' who embodies all-things (& people) we love in Reno, NV, where the three of us met. Shilo has a sass and a class that cannot be beat (as long as she's packed the correct footwear for the occasion <3). A heart of gold, she’ll probably be taking time off from fostering puppies to come celebrate with us. Shilo made many big Reno moments extra special: moving to a new place, wine nights (& days), Lake Tahoe trips, even took a day off work to hang out at the Reno Senior Center with us, just..'cuz. She's simply YOLO-tastic!
Samir Al-Hadid
Groomsman
Canton, OH USA Saaaaaaaaam! Samir Al-Hadid is probably the most lasting, important thing that came out of Matt’s time at Western Michigan University…besides maybe those two college degrees. A professional jazz singer, Sam is always the life of the party. He's got an energy that makes everyone gravitate towards him, and effortlessly makes it so everyone around is having a good time. Rich met Sam, one time...at Band Camp. Actually, it was a music camp where Sam spent summers, in Maine, but c'mon, close enough. After sharing a meal (of delicious lobster), and a drink or three, Rich got the seal of approval. Rich is convinced - only because Sam endorses it - that Sam likes Rich more than Matt.
Brittany Baker
Groomswoman
Knoxville, TN USA Another friend from the early-days, Brittany Baker has always been a consistent fixture in Matt’s life. Whether going over to one another’s houses growing up, reminiscing over absolutely EVERYTHING; or confiding and supporting each other while they both were living in new cities... states... counties... again! Brittany met Rich while she was still in NYC, and strengthened their bond when Britt came out to Reno. The boys even got to meet her other half, TJ, over Facetime (& allllmost got him on a plane to hang with us!). Always down to make a new memory, you’ll notice B has everything on lock: ask her anything during the wedding/week of/Friday funday; she’s got you!
Darrin McCarthy
Officiant
Rich and Darrin first met when Rich started working at his (still current) place of employment back in 2018. They kicked off a professional relationship which lead to great things for the company they work for :) Outside of work, Darrin met Matt when he moved to Reno, NV. Trivia nights and awesome company ensued. Darrin affectionately calls Matt 'Little Brother'. If you need any amazing food recommendations, or Nevada based history, Darrin is your man. We are so pleased Darrin agreed to be our 'Officiant' for our ceremony.