Amy & Jonathan
Wedding Party
Lauren Summers
Matron of Honor
Lauren remains the only non-family member who's phone number Amy still has memorized. Friends since 1994, Amy and Lauren grew up around the the corner from each other. Lauren has been a constant friend and has taught Amy so much about living life to the fullest, taking things as they come, and truly appreciating the entire Beatles discography.
Jeffrey Hatgas
Best Man
Every great crew in history has followed the same basic dynamic. Looks, brains, wildcard. When it comes to the Hatgas twins, both are all three. Balanced, thoughtful, and a whole lot of fun, Jeff's the one breaking on the dance floor while Jon's freshening up his tonic water. He's the guy always willing to give the benefit of the doubt and always looking for the next adventure. Jeff savors life and brings out the flavor of all those he meets. He is THE best man!
Erika Franey
Bridesmaid
The perfect personality combo of Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, & Luna Lovegood, Erika brings wisdom, quirk, & fierce feminine power to the party. Cat lover extraordinaire and speaker of deep truths, this bad ass lady consistently teaches Amy about being bold and not backing down. In her free time she can be found with her nose in a book or taking her cats on hikes in her trusty cat backpack!
Joseph Hess
Groomsman
Besides looking like a model, Joe is a model of kindness, humility, and openness. Jon fondly remembers talking to Joe on the landline about 4th grade crushes (though they've been friends since kindergarden!)
Melanie Nguyen
Bridesmaid
Melanie is a BEAST on the dance floor (look out Jon & Jeff!) and as goofy as they come. "Froul Mates," Amy & Melanie met on a retreat in college and shared a love for adventure & wacky dance moves (e.g. the camel). Melanie has the biggest heart in the entire world and can always be counted on for deeply wise advice, an empathetic response, and a witty comment.
Louie
Groomsman
I didn't even look what kind of beers in there Louie life of the party, (biochemical) engineer smartie, has a big heart-y. Louie was a constant companion of Jon in high school service projects and a continually welcomed presence in Jon's life, wherever he lives.
Rachel Nagengast
Bridesmaid
Rachel, Rach, Rachie, Duck, Weinah!!! Bonding over a shared love of briny foods, as graduate assistants, classmates, & grad school roommates, Rachel has always been able to make Amy laugh. Fiercely loyal, brave, & joyful, Rachel teaches Amy to stand up for what's right, to question the status quo, and is currently working on getting Amy to enjoy eating olives (good luck!).
Renju Chakkiath
Groomsman
Jon met his self-proclaimed "crazy Indian brother" in graduate school. Renju encouraged Jon to always find joy and humor in life and energy on the dance floor
Katie Kaniewski
Bridesmaid
Fellow Philosophy of Mugs blogger, Katie started out as Amy's supervisor and mentor in college and has turned into one of her closest friends. When Amy & Katie are together their time is spent sharing highs & lows over cups of coffee or tea. Katie teaches Amy about finding joy in life's small moments & about all things nerdy and comic booky.
Alexander Garoutte
Groomsman
"He-who-shall-not-be-nicknamed", Alexander is one of the privileged few to survive living with both Hatgas twins in addition to spending seven years of school with Amy. This dude's patient, kind, and tough!
Belinda Leos Northrop
Bridesmaid
With a shared love of corn-dogs & beer, the Amy/Belinda mutual admiration society began many moons ago when Belinda began dating Amy's brother. Now that they're married and have provided Amy with the cutest niece in all the land, Lily, that bond grows even stronger. An ER nurse and general thrill seeker, Belinda is one of the bravest people Amy knows. (Especially since she has to live with Arrand!)
Arrand Northrop
Groomsman
Arrand has it all-- enviable facial hair, a quick wit, and a heart of gold. He's an ER nurse, Amy's brother, a dad (and a dog-dad). Jon hasn't known him long, but he's so excited to have him as a brother-in-law!
Christina Hernandez
Bridesmaid
One of the most generous and fiercely loyal people Amy has ever known, Christina has guided Amy through many of life's ups and downs. Ever since they first met in summer school at Rosary High School (Makin' it my school, bringing the world the Gospel!..... *clap*clap*) Amy has admired Christina's fearlessness, wisdom, and her beautiful singing voice.
Tamara Setiady
Groomswoman
Wise, kind, and nerdy, Tam has helped Jon survive big transitions from the living in intentional community in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles to surviving graduate school from the confines of a 1st year undergrad dormitory.
Jane Barry-Moran
Officiant
A constant support throughout grad school, Jane made even the toughest days enjoyable. Jane has the biggest heart and is not afraid to share with anyone she meets. She roots for love, always & everywhere! Jane knew, maybe even before we did, that our relationship would go the distance. With her enthusiasm for life, choosing her to celebrate our commitment to one another was a no brainer!