Rachel & Samuel
Wedding Party
Carol Rogalski
Maid of Honor
Carol "Gung" Rogalski is not only a Maid of Honor, she's also the best Grandmother a girl could ask for. My grandma is the heart and soul of our family, a woman whose love, strength, and wisdom shine in everything she does. As my Maid of Honor, she’s not just fulfilling a role – she’s living her legacy of unconditional support and kindness. From the moment I was born, she’s been my rock, guiding me with her gentle yet fierce spirit. Whether through life’s challenges or the happiest moments, she’s always been the first to cheer me on and the last to let me go. Her laughter is contagious, her hugs are healing, and her wisdom is beyond measure. My grandma taught me what it means to love deeply and live fully. Her resilience and grace are constant sources of inspiration, and having her by my side on my wedding day is a dream come true. She’s not just my grandma; she’s my best friend, my role model, and my greatest supporter. There’s no one else I’d trust more to stand beside me as I take this next step in my life. Her presence is a reminder of the deep family bonds we share, and having her as my Maid of Honor is an honor I will cherish forever. Simply put, my grandma is an extraordinary woman, and I’m incredibly lucky to have her in my life.
Courtney Aures
Maid of Honor
My older sister is the definition of strength, intelligence, and love. As my Maid of Honor, she brings not only her unwavering support but also the kind of wisdom that only a big sister can offer. She may be shorter than me, but in every way that matters, she’s always been the bigger sister – guiding me, challenging me, and showing me how to navigate the world with both grace and determination. She’s smart, strong-minded, and an amazing mom who effortlessly balances it all. Watching her parent has been an inspiration. I love my niece and nephew so much, and seeing how devoted she is to them only makes me admire her more. Her advice is invaluable, her humor contagious, and her heart is as big as her determination. Not to mention, she’s in school to become a teacher, and I have no doubt she’ll be the best one out there. Her ability to connect with people, especially kids, will make her an incredible educator. Courtney is also one of the funniest, most outgoing people I know. She lights up every room with her energy, her laugh, and her big personality. Having her by my side on one of the most important days of my life means more than words can express. My sister is my role model, my confidant, and, above all, my best friend. She’s the person I turn to when I need guidance and the one who knows me better than anyone else. I’m incredibly lucky to have her as my Maid of Honor, and I wouldn’t want anyone else standing next to me as I begin this new chapter in my life.
Gabrielle LaBoy
Maid of Honor
My little sister is my rock, my buddy, and my biggest supporter. As my Maid of Honor, she stands by me not just as a sibling but as someone who truly knows me – the quirky, emotional, and sometimes chaotic version of myself. She’s eccentric, cool, and entirely her own person, and that’s what makes her so incredibly special. There’s no one else who could bring the same energy, laughter, and unapologetic authenticity to my big day. From the moments of silly laughter to the deeper conversations about life, she’s been my constant companion through it all. Her individuality, her creative spirit, and her fearless way of embracing life have always been a source of inspiration for me. Whether she's offering me a shoulder to lean on or just making me laugh until my stomach hurts, she has a way of making everything feel better. Having her by my side on my wedding day is a dream come true. She’s not just my little sister – she’s my best friend, my confidant, and someone who makes life more colorful and exciting. I couldn’t imagine anyone else by my side as I take this next step, and I’m beyond grateful to have her as my Maid of Honor.
Elizabeth Whitford
Bridesmaid
Liz is my best friend, my soulmate, and the person I know I can always count on – just as she knows she can count on me. Our bond is unbreakable, a true testament to the years of laughter, tears, and everything in between. She’s not only my rock, but she’s also one of the most beautiful, confident, and intelligent women I know. Watching her navigate life with grace and strength is nothing short of inspiring. As a mom, Liz is an incredible role model – balancing everything with love, patience, and an unwavering dedication to her family. Her ability to juggle it all while remaining one of the most amazing, kind-hearted people I know is something I deeply admire. She’s truly a force, a woman who radiates confidence and brilliance in everything she does. Having her as a bridesmaid is not just an honor, it’s a privilege. She’s been my constant, my biggest cheerleader, and my closest confidant. There’s no one else I’d rather have by my side on my wedding day. Liz is the definition of a soulmate – someone who has been with me through every chapter of my life, and I can’t wait to continue this beautiful journey with her by my side.
Jonica Walton
Bridesmaid
Jonica is not only my brother’s long-term girlfriend but also a major, irreplaceable part of our family. She’s an incredible mom to my nephews, always giving them her love, care, and guidance with such grace and patience. Watching her with them, you can see just how devoted and selfless she is, and it’s a beautiful thing to witness. As the perfect partner for my brother, Jonica complements him in every way. Their relationship is built on mutual respect, love, and support – and it’s clear to see the joy they bring to each other’s lives. I consider Jonica not only a good friend but also a sister. She’s someone who is always there when needed, offering warmth, wisdom, and laughter. Having her as a bridesmaid means the world to me because she’s not just part of my family through my brother, but someone I deeply cherish. She’s a wonderful woman, an amazing mom, and an important part of my life. I’m so lucky to have her by my side as I take this next step in my journey.
Chandler Ryan
Bridesmaid
Chandler is not only a bridesmaid but also one of the most incredible friends I could ask for. As the wife of the best man, I’m so lucky to have met her and formed such a strong bond with her. We’ve created our own special friendship, and I cherish every moment of it. Chandler is a stunning, confident, and happy West Coast original who radiates positivity and warmth. She’s the definition of a "girl’s girl" – effortlessly cool, kind, and genuine. One of the things we love to joke about is how, coming from Buffalo, we eat blue cheese, not ranch! But Chandler? She’ll always choose ranch dressing, and we’ll never let her forget it! Her love for sports is just as strong as her love for ranch, and whether she’s cheering on her favorite teams or playing herself, she brings energy and passion to everything she does. Add to that her intelligence, classic style, and upcoming role as a mom, and she’s the perfect blend of fun, love, and wisdom. Chandler is the kind of woman that others admire and think, “I want to be like her” because she makes it all look so easy. I’m so grateful to have her in my life and couldn’t be happier to have her by my side as my bridesmaid.
Sarah Cucinotta
Bridesmaid
Sarah, my soon-to-be sister, is one of the most incredible women I know. Intelligent, creative, and full of heart, she’s truly one-of-a-kind. As the sister of the groom, she has always been a huge part of his life, and it’s clear to see the love and bond they share. Her love for her family, especially her brother, is beyond measure, and it’s a beautiful thing to witness. Sarah is also a huge fan of The Nightmare Before Christmas—it’s one of her signature passions that makes her uniquely her. When she’s not immersed in her favorite movie, she’s likely cooking up something amazing in the kitchen, as she’s truly an incredible cook. Whether it's baking, cooking, or creating the perfect dish, she has a knack for making everything taste like heaven. Beyond that, she’s the best "dog aunt" anyone could ask for—her love for her furry family members is just as strong as her love for the rest of her family. And if all that wasn’t enough, Sarah is also the proud owner of her own candy business, adding a sweet touch to everything she does! Having her by my side as a bridesmaid means the world to me. Her warmth, her intelligence, and her genuine love for everyone around her make her someone I’m beyond lucky to have in my life. I can’t wait for her to officially be my sister!
Katie Thompson
Bridesmaid
Kate is not just a bridesmaid; she’s one of the most important people in my life. Our friendship spans years of memories, from countless road trips to late-night talks, to being roommates and sharing our lives together. She’s stood by my side through everything, and there have been more moments where she saved me than she’ll ever truly know. Kate’s support, love, and loyalty are unmatched, and I’m beyond grateful for everything she’s done for me. Kate is an incredible mom to all of my amazing nephews, and her nurturing, caring spirit shines through in everything she does. Beyond her role as a mother, she’s also a beekeeper—an impressive, unique passion that reflects her deep love for nature and commitment to helping others. Her lifelong ambition to make a difference in the world is something I admire deeply, and I’ve always looked up to her drive to make the world a better place. We’ve talked so many times over the years about what role she’d play in my wedding, and I’m beyond lucky that she will be standing right by my side. Kate has been there for me through thick and thin, and having her as a bridesmaid means the world to me. She’s not just my best friend; she’s my sister in every sense of the word.
Patrick Ryan
Best Man
Pat's not just my best man; he’s been my best friend since college, and I honestly don’t know where I’d be without him. We’ve been through it all together — from hockey games to Buffalo Bills Sundays, and everything in between. Pat’s the kind of guy who always has your back, no matter what. Whether we’re celebrating wins or picking each other up after a loss, I know I can count on him. Beyond being a fantastic teammate on and off the ice, Pat’s got a heart bigger than his cooking skills (and trust me, he’s an amazing cook). He’s the kind of guy who will drop everything to help, always there with a kind word or a helping hand when you need it most. With Chandler by his side, it’s clear he’s got a partner who shares that same generosity and loyalty. To me, having Pat by my side means the world — he’s a friend for life, and I couldn’t imagine this day without him.
Patrick Hennesey
Groomsman
Pat is one of the longest friendships I’ve had, and I honestly couldn’t be more grateful to have him by my side. He’s the kind of guy who’s just naturally great at everything — an incredible husband, an amazing dad, and without a doubt, the best mailman I know. And let’s not forget, he’s always got the nooners in hand when it’s time for a good break. We’ve shared a lot of great moments over the years, especially on the ice, where Pat’s always been a solid teammate. But it’s not just hockey that makes him such a standout friend; it’s the fact that he’s someone you want to have dinner with, because good conversation and great company always come easy with him. I’m so happy he’s here today to stand beside me, and it means the world to have him with me as I take this next step.
Anthony Pavone
Groomsman
TJ and I go way back to high school, but it wasn’t until after college that our friendship really blossomed. Sports have always been a huge part of our connection, and it’s through that bond that we’ve grown even closer over the years. TJ has been a constant supporter, especially when it comes to my reffing career. He’s the guy who shows up for me, no matter how busy life gets, and that kind of loyalty is hard to find. What makes TJ such a great friend is that no matter how much time passes between visits, you always know he’s got your back. He’s the kind of guy you can always count on, whether you’ve seen each other yesterday or last year. Having him here means a lot to me — I’m lucky to have him as a friend.
Shawn Riccio
Groomsman
Shawn and I met through work, but it didn’t take long for us to realize we had a connection that went beyond the office. Our shared passion for Buffalo sports instantly brought us together, and even though time can pass between seeing each other, we’re always in touch — sending each other posts, cracking jokes, and keeping the conversation going all day long. Shawn’s another one of those great people who just gets it. He’s an amazing dad with another little one on the way, and an incredible husband to Jenna — who is every bit as cool as he is. Not every friendship has a wild, long history, but sometimes, you just know who your people are. Shawn is definitely one of my people, and I’m so thankful to have him by my side.
Matthew Terreri
Groomsman
Matt is not only an incredible hockey official, but he’s an even better friend. He’s the kind of person who brings unwavering support and keeps the energy high no matter what. From our countless games officiated together to those unforgettable nights at Mandy’s Bar, sharing wings and laughs over a drink, Matt has been a constant source of good vibes. His energy is infectious, and his friendship is something I truly cherish. I feel so lucky to have him by my side, and I’m beyond excited to have him standing with us on our special day. Matt is a husband, a father, and a true friend, and I can’t wait for him to be a part of this next chapter in our lives.
Nicholas Aures
Groomsman
When Rachel and I marry, Nick will be my brother-in-law, its been awesome getting to know him over the last 4 and a half years. He’s married to Courtney, the Maid of Honor, and together they’ve built an amazing family with their two kids, Cooper and Charlie. Watching him as a husband and dad, you can’t help but respect the way he balances everything with such care and dedication. Nick’s got a great sense of humor, loves a good beer, and you can always count on him to chat about the latest Buffalo sports news. As much as he’s family, having him step into the role of groomsman has been a great opportunity for us to bond. I’m grateful for the whole Aures family being here to celebrate this special day with us.
Joey Campbell
Groomsman
Joey’s a traveling man, so we don’t get to hang out as much as we’d like, but when we do, it’s always a great time. He’s one of those guys who can eat wings with the best of them, party until the sun comes up, and always offer the best conversations. Joey’s not shy — in fact, he’s the kind of person who brings life to any room he walks into. Having him as part of this wedding party was one of the easiest decisions I made. I know he’ll bring his energy and his infectious spirit to the day, and I’m excited to have him by my side as we celebrate this next chapter.
Michael Rogalski
My Escort of Honor
My older brother is someone who has been a constant source of strength, love, and support throughout my life. As I prepare to walk down the aisle, it’s an absolute honor to have him by my side, stepping into a role that he’s taken on since a young age—filling the gap left by not having a father in my life. He has always been there for me, guiding me, protecting me, and showing me what it means to be a great man. Not only is he an incredible brother, but he’s also an amazing father to my two wonderful nephews. His dedication to his family is unmatched, and it’s clear that his love for them runs deep. His role as a partner to Jonica only adds to his unwavering commitment to those he loves. He works tirelessly to provide for his family, always putting them first, and his strength and work ethic are qualities I admire and aspire to. Having him walk me down the aisle is more than just a moment at my wedding; it’s a testament to the love, loyalty, and care he’s shown me throughout my life. I’m beyond grateful to have him by my side, and it is truly an honor to share this moment with him as I begin this new chapter.
Kiel Renick
Officiant
Kiel is truly the coolest, most inspirational guy I know. His drive to live a simple, meaningful life—helping others, doing the right thing, and always striving for goodness—is something I admire deeply. He’s the kind of person who makes the world a better place just by being in it. A well-traveled soul, Kiel has seen the world and experienced so much, yet remains grounded and full of wisdom. He’s also a proud dog dad to the cutest little dog, Biscuit, and has the most kind, beautiful, and loving wife, Olivia. They make such an incredible team and are a true example of love and partnership. Kiel lives in Alaska, which is a whole adventure in itself, but what truly stands out is his genuine care for others. Even though we’re not that far apart in age, Kiel is an absolute role model to me—someone I look up to in so many ways. I’m beyond grateful that he’s going to be the officiant at our wedding because I know he’ll bring the same heart, warmth, and care to this special moment as he does to everything in his life. It’s an honor to have him part of our wedding day, and I know he’s going to make the ceremony unforgettable with his thoughtfulness and presence.
Jayden, Cooper, Bennett
Ring Bearer
Jayden, Cooper, and Bennett — where do I even begin? These three are honestly the best nephews I could ever hope for. They each bring something so special to the table, and their parents are doing an amazing job raising them. You can see the love and care in the way they are — so uniquely themselves, full of sweetness, kindness, and humor. They’re more than just my nephews; they’re my best friends, and I’m lucky beyond words to have them in my life. Each one of these little guys has changed me in ways I never expected, and they've taught me that love grows deeper the more time you spend with the people who matter most. Having them stand by our side as Ring Security is one of the greatest joys of this day, and we couldn’t be more thankful that they’re part of this journey. Our day wouldn’t be the same without them — they make it that much more incredible.
Charlie Aures
Flower Girl
Charlie is the sweetest little soul you could ever meet — a puppy dog lover, a Taylor Swift superfan, and the most adorable fashionista around. But more than that, she’s an angel who brings light to every room she walks into. I truly can’t put into words how much I love this little girl. She’s everyone’s best friend, so full of life and energy, and she gets that from her incredible parents. Having Charlie as our flower girl is such an honor. She’s made this day even more meaningful, and I feel so blessed that she’s part of this journey with us. I know she’ll steal the show, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
Sherry Cucinotta
Mother of the Groom
Sherry is truly the most incredible mom anyone could ever ask for. Her love, kindness, and unwavering support for our family are unparalleled. As her son, I consider myself beyond fortunate to have her by my side. She's always there for me, no matter what—her endless support has meant more to me than words can express. My mom has taught me so much about what it means to be a compassionate person, and she's shown me that it's more than okay to be open and share your emotions. Her energy is contagious, and her hugs are unmatched in warmth and comfort. She’s not just an amazing mom; she's a fierce sports fan, especially when it comes to the Bills! I can honestly say that I wouldn’t be where I am today without her. I am forever grateful to have such an incredible, loving mom in my life.
Joseph Cucinotta
Father of the Groom
My dad is not just my father, he’s my best friend and my biggest fan. From the very beginning, he has supported me in ways I can’t even put into words. When I was a kid, he introduced me to the game of hockey—little did he know, or anyone for that matter, just how much it would shape my life. From youth games to high school, college, and now my career as an official at both the college and professional levels, my family has been there with me every step of the way, and my dad has always been right there, cheering me on. I’m incredibly lucky and grateful for all the amazing moments we’ve shared together. His guidance, love, and belief in me have meant the world, and I truly wouldn’t be who I am without him. As I look forward to marrying Rachel, I can’t help but feel incredibly blessed that my dad will be there to witness this new chapter in my life.
Delaware
MVP
There’s no question about who the true MVP is in our family — it’s our beloved Delaware. We were lucky enough to adopt him, and from the moment he entered our lives, he’s brought the greatest joy we could ever ask for. Deli is more than just a dog; he’s a best friend, a companion, and a constant source of happiness. Deli has his own little crew of dog best friends like Boone, Clyde, and Kiwi, and he’s the first to wag his tail and make everyone feel welcome, whether it’s at daycare, the dog park, or just out on an adventure. His favorite second home is with his grandparents and Auntie, where he’s spoiled with love and treats. One of Deli’s absolute favorite things in the world is going on long walks and hikes — he’s always ready to explore new trails, take in the fresh air, and be part of every adventure. His energy and enthusiasm for these outings are contagious, and they’re just another reason we love him so much. What makes Deli even more special is his quirky habits. When he’s ready for bed (and it’s usually early like his mama!), he’ll put himself to sleep, snuggling in as content as can be. He’s also a huge Buffalo Bills fan, just like his papa, and nothing makes him happier than watching the game with us. Deli listens like a pro, always the best boy, and he’s a solid 10/10 every single day. He’s truly our best friend, and it’s impossible to imagine our lives without him. Having him by our side today makes everything feel just right.