Alyssa & Elliott
Wedding Party
Christine O'Donnell Kuzj
Matron of Honor
The Bride's older sister and best friend. Throughout the Bride's life she has always been known as "Christine's little sister," and though she's her own person, there's no better person to be referenced by. Christine, a CEO and NCAA Rowing Champion, has always inspired Alyssa and paved the way for her countless times. Over the years, Christine and Alyssa have been separated by 1000's of miles, but no matter the distance, Christine has always made the Bride feel close. This sisterhood is Alyssa's most treasured relationship.
Jack Starr
Best Man
The Groom's life long best friend of two decades, Jack and Elliott have always remained close through all phases of life. Meeting in Northern California as young boys, their friendship seemed at an end when Jack moved to Nashville, however fate seemed to bring them back together a year later when Elliott followed him to Nashville. Ever since they have been inseparable. Even when they both went to college across the US, they always made time for each other to always check in and catch up. Jack and his wife are now living in Raleigh as first time homeowners and Jack is now the proud Founder and CEO of Brown Dog Bakery.
Madison Jackson
Bridesmaid
The Groom's little sister and bridesmaid. Separated by 18 months, Elliott and Maddie often found themselves arguing against each other, even in some cases Elliott found himself against both Vinny and Maddie. Over time, especially when Elliott left to go to college, they realized how important each other were to their lives and individual growth leading them to put their differences aside and focus on what each other needed at the time. Elliott and Maddie, often bonded through their professional growth, but also were impressed by how they grew and matured from their younger versions. To this day and mores so tomorrow, Elliott remains incredibly proud of his little sister.
Asiya Mahmud
Bridesmaid
A November 2023 Bride and lifelong friend. Asiya and Alyssa were once Coaching fo's biking alongside one another, rooting for separate Philadelphia universities as their crew's raced to the finish line. Now, Asiya, one of the winningest Rowing Coaches in the US, is Alyssa's truest friend. Asiya and Alyssa couldn't have more in common; between both loving rose gold and sequins to craving Cool Ranch Doritos, these two are a dynamic duo. No matter the day, the Bride can always count on Asiya to be there, put a smile on her face, and honestly make her feel like a badass and that she can conquer the world. Remember the name Asiya Mahmud because she's changing the world.
Mallorie Rose
Bridesmaid
The Bride's college teammate and decade-long friend. Mallorie and Alyssa are like peanut butter and jelly, but as a blonde and redhead - they just go together. Both, originally from upstate New York, transferred to Nova Southeastern University and quickly had an immediate impact on the rowing team. And also an immediate impact on South Florida... These two had so much fun together in college, and the memories grow founder over the years. Every time Mallorie and the Bride get together, it's like no time has passed, and they're still in their college years. Alyssa can always count on Mallorie, as she showed up as the Bride's biggest fan at several regattas when Alyssa was coaching. Now, separated by all of the Great Lakes, these two are stronger than ever because they have each other.
Rachael Thompson
Bridesmaid
The Bride's longest friend. Alyssa and Rachael first met in 7th grade rowing 4 and 5 seat - and if you don't know about rowing, that means they spent HOURS just 2 feet apart from each other. And now, 20+ years later, they couldn't be any closer. Alyssa, who was Rachael's Bridesmaid in 2021, believes all along that Rachael knew Elliott was the one. Because Rachael has known the Bride through every twist and turn, knew there was something special about Elliott. Alyssa, with butterflies and excitement, would eagerly call Rachael before every date with Elliott. And Rachael was just as excited because for so long, she wanted Alyssa to find love. Rachel has been in Alyssa’s corner rooting for love like this. Now, Rachael, a new mom, who admires and adores love so much is raising a daughter with her husband who will grow up knowing so strongly what love is because of who her mom is.
Sassan Caspiani
Groomsman
The Groom's friend, fellow USC Trojan, and Roommate of two years. Elliott and Sassan met during the first week of college and connected right away. In fact, it was Sassan who convinced Elliott to join Phi Delta Theta where they became Brothers as well as many other Groomsman. Through the good and the bad during college, Sassan has always been a most trusted friend and known for his "one-liners", Cheesin smile, and silky smooth dance moves that are expected to be seen at our wedding.
Andrew "Guti" Gutierez
Groomsman
The Groom's friend, fellow USC Trojan and better known as "Guti". A couple Vegas trips, Coachella, and late infamous nights in Santa Monica / Venice, Guti and Elliott have developed a super close relationship where no matter how much time has past, they always picked up where they last left. Guti is a tremendous Salesman that has a way with words, but also has a very warm soul who would give you the shirt off his back. While the wedding will be full of positive energy, expect Guti to raise the bar in honor of his close friend.
Brendan Hansan
Groomsman
The Groom's friend, fellow USC Trojan, and Phi Delta Theta "Big Brother". Brendan and Elliott have remained close since their time in the fraternity together, so close in fact that they both currently reside in Minneapolis. Brendan, currently working in the music industry, help broaden Elliott's music taste and actually introduced him to his some of his favorite DJ's and tracks in House Music while attending music festivals such as Coachella, Nocturnal, or special DJ events in Los Angeles. We can expect to see Elliott and Brendan enjoying a beer together retelling stories of their favorite festival moments.
Jeff Peterson
Groomsman
The Groom's friend and most trusted Pilot. Jeff and Elliott bonded over their love for the aviation industry. While one is obsessed with the customer experience and types of aircraft, the other is trusted with lives and multi million dollar aircraft. Former roommates, Jeff & Elliott stayed close whether it be random meetups in the Denver airport, quick trip to Vegas, or frequently visiting the old stomping grounds at Townhouse.
Steve Kuzj
Officiant
The Bride's brother-in-law and world-class Broadcast Journalist. Known for his voice and ninja skills. But, don't be intimidated by those round-house kicks, Steve has the biggest heart. Also, Father to the littlest members of the Bridal Party.
Nico Crecco
"Something Blue"
The Bride's "Something Blue" is a fellow NSU Shark, the world's best Realtor and expert playlist creator. Known for leading the carpool in college that may or may not have been over the legal limit, but more importantly, he would give you the shirt off his back.
Vincent Jackson
Usher
The Groom's older brother who is incredibly kind and inclusive. Vinny & Elliott grew up only 3 years apart. They both enjoyed very similar things whether it was sports, video games, or even friendly eating competitions during the holidays. Growing up they tended to pick on each other a lot as they were both super passionate for the collegiate teams they supported. Vinny, an Oregon Superfan, and Elliott an USC Superfan would always brag about their teams to one another. While they haven't been living in the same state since 2008, they have always been connected. Vinny who is a very kind human, Elliott knows that he can always count on his big brother for advice and/or support at any given time.
Ryan O'Donnell
Usher
The Bride's big brother who has the warmest laugh in the room. Ryan and Alyssa are just two years apart. Growing up, like most brothers and sisters, the battles were endless, and somehow Alyssa would always win. Pays off to be the little sister. Now as they've both matured, they're closer than ever. Alyssa can always count on Ryan when she needs a trip down memory lane or a song suggestion that's a blast from the past. But more than anything she can count on him to give the best hugs, which she's expecting many of on the wedding day.
Asher Kuzj
Ring Bearer
The Bride's Godson and Nephew. Now you know where Asher's hair color came from. This story-loving 5-year-old is quite the snuggler. Asher was caught on Christmas cuddling up to his Auntie after she fell asleep on the couch, and he laid a blanket over her. He may love all the super hero's out there, but he love's his Auntie the most.
Avalyn Kuzj
Flower Girl
The Bride's adorable Niece. This 2-year-old, with striking blue eyes and a precious smile, will easily steal the show on the wedding day. She gained her independence and can-do attitude from the Matron of Honor but got her love for pink and sparkles from her Auntie.