Danielle & Bret
Wedding Party
Karly Schultz
Maid of Honor
Often mistaken for Danielle's fiancé, Karly is truly Danielle's other half! Inseparable from their first Facebook message circa 2011 when they found out they were dorm-mates, Karly has been one of the best gifts Danielle has ever received in life. Karly is the epitome of a best friend, sister and all around great person, who has helped shape Danielle into who she is today! From doing basically everything together, living together all 4.5 years (holla at cha super-senior semester) of college, and moving to Colorado to start their adult lives together, Karly and Danielle have been through it all hand-in-hand! Danielle thanks her lucky stars everyday for bringing such a loyal, supportive, wonderful woman into her life, and actually couldn't do this day without Karly standing by her side!
Derek Balestri
Best Man
Derek is not only the Groom's brother, but also his best friend. Inseparable since birth, Derek and Bret have done everything together. Whether they're quoting their favorite TV shows or Movies or competing against each other on the golf course, ice rink, baseball field or basketball court these two are the definition of brothers! Bret couldn't be happier to have Derek by his side on the big day!
Taylor Dean
Maid of Honor
Anything, Anywhere, Anytime Taylor has been there by Danielle's side! Best friends since 15, Taylor and Danielle share a bond too precious to put into words. Connected through Dance at MLDA, these two have spent more time and special moments together than most people ever get. While having the same ideals, passions, and perspective in life, Taylor and Danielle push each other to always be the best version of themselves. Whether its council, a listening ear, a pep talk, telling the other how wonderful they are, or just hearing about each others day, these two fill a very special role in each others life. Taylor and Danielle have always known that no matter what they will be inseparable till the end! Danielle has always wanted Taylor to be standing by her side today, everyday & onto forever!
Tom Alter
Groomsman
Tom and Bret have been friends for over 20 years! Growing up just down the street from each other, they would spend days on end hanging out in their neighborhood. At this point, both Tom and Bret have unofficially been adopted by each other's family because they are practically brothers. No matter how much time passes between hanging out with each other, they always pick up where they left off. Tom has played an influential part in Bret's life and Bret would not be where he is today without having a best friend like Tom.
Maren Strother
Maiden of Honor
The universe knew Danielle had always dreamed of having a little sister and there was only one person who could fill that role... Maren! Originally hired as the (AMAZING) Strother families nanny, Danielle met Maren when she was 9yrs old and still (believe it or not) shorter than Danielle. Since the day they met they have been two peas-in-a-pod, besties, family. From crazy adventures, mile stones, trips, watching each other dance, to the everyday normal "sister stuff" and all around just "getting each other", Danielle has been so honored to be a part of Maren's life. While Maren is only 16yrs old Danielle feels as if she is her equal and loves nothing more than simply just being with Maren. There is no one she would rather claim is her long-lost sister and share this special day with!
Vince Mattioli
Groomsman
Bret is still not sure if Vince and his brother Alex are cousins or second cousins. Either way, it does not matter because Vince and Alex have been a part of Bret's life since the day he was born. All that matters is that they are all best friends and nothing beats hanging out with each other. There is never a dull moment when this group is together and you will always see them laughing. Both Vince and Alex have been by Bret's side his whole life and Bret wouldn't want it any other way on the big day!
Paige Zimmerman
Bridesmaid
Paige, Danielle's "longest best friend", has been such a special part of her life since the girls were 8. Meeting in Elementary school and remaining close till today, they have shared more laughs, happy&sad tears, smiles and special memories than they can count! From buying matching outfits to wear to school, making up silly dances and songs for their "band", celebrating milestones, navigating their way through their teenage years, getting into trouble, and eventually watching each other enter adulthood, Danielle is so lucky to have a light like Paige in her life. 18 years and counting these girls will be besties till their old and grey... but of course, still fabulous! Danielle is so thankful to have Paige here with her today and for all the years of unconditional love and support!
Alex Mattioli
Groomsman
Bret is still not sure if Vince and his brother Alex are cousins or second cousins. Either way, it does not matter because Vince and Alex have been a part of Bret's life since the day he was born. All that matters is that they are all best friends and nothing beats hanging out with each other. There is never a dull moment when this group is together and you will always see them laughing. Both Vince and Alex have been by Bret's side his whole life and Bret wouldn't want it any other way on the big day!
Amanda Crane
Bridesmaid
Although they were random roommates freshman year, Amanda and Danielle were always meant to be in each others lives! Instantly connecting at their first meeting in Chicago (to shop for college clothing and coordinate their dorm room decor of course) Amanda and Danielle have been "roomfates" since day one! 7 years, multiple states, and countless good times/memories have kept these two close no matter what! Danielle has always been so thankful to have had Amanda be the "rando" she got paired to live with and couldn't ask for a better friend. Amanda and Danielle have always supported each others Dreams and pushed each other to be the very best they can possibly be. Danielle owes a lot of her favorite freshman year memories to Amanda and wouldn't be who she is today without her boundless love!
Russell Fu
Groomsman
Not everyone gets an additional brother and best friend added to their family by chance. Bret's stepbrother Russ is the furthest thing from a stepbrother. These two are best friends and are always looking out for each other. Russ has been an integral part of Bret's life and has always been a mentor for Bret. Their highs and lows associated with their favorite college football teams bring them closer and closer together every fall. It is meant to be that Russ will be standing by Bret's side on the big day.
Mackenzie Bates
Bridesmaid
Mackenzie is truly one of the funniest, kind hearted, intelligent, well rounded people Danielle has ever met. Meeting through Gamma Phi at the University of Iowa, Danielle and Mackenzie became close their sophomore year of college while living in the sorority house. They then lived together for 3 years and have shared countless memories & good times! Although the girls are opposites in many ways, they are also very much the same person deep down. Danielle and Mackenzie connect on a very special level and have an unbreakable bond that Danielle is so thankful for. From nights in cuddling on the couch, to nights out, standing in each others weddings, adventures, and everything in between, Danielle couldn't imagine her life or this day without Kenzie by her side! S/O to the MVP, baby Emma!
Jake Vizek
Groomsman
Jake and Bret have been friends for over 15 years! First meeting in elementary school, these two were always hanging out after school and spending weekends at baseball tournaments with Jake and his brothers. These two have developed a friendship that has withstood the test of time and distance simply because Jake is an incredible person and an even better best friend. Spending hours in French class together allowed Bret to comfortably navigate his way around France to successfully propose to Danielle. Jake has always been there for Bret and being there on the wedding day will be no different.
Maddison Miller
Bridesmaid
Madds, as Danielle likes to call her, is one of a kind! The girls met their freshman year of college second semester when Danielle found out that Gamma Phi was getting a transfer student who grew up in Colorado. Being the only Colorado girl in the sorority, and one of few Colorado residents at the university Danielle "attacked" her in excitement when she first arrived at the sorority house! Ever since that fateful (and probably overwhelming/ slightly scary moment for Maddison) day they have had a special connection! Not only does Maddison have a huge heart but she happens to be a Victoria Secret model, genius, comedian all wrapped up into one... the perfect package! Danielle is so thankful to have such a beautiful soul in her life and by her side on this special day!
Tony Coglianese
Groomsman
Another "Kid" from the neighborhood...turned best friend. Tony grew up houses down from Bret back in their hometown and there was never a time when these two were not playing sports. Tony shared the same competitive mindset as Bret, which only brought them closer. Fast forward 8 - 10 years and these two are in the same fraternity at the University of Iowa thanks to Tony's persuasion (Yes, he is in sales). If Bret never attended Iowa or joined their fraternity he would have never met Danielle. I think it's fair to say Tony was the initial matchmaker. Tony and Bret's love for music has also brought them together and Tony would DJ the wedding if he could. Tony has always been there for Bret and has given him so much. The least Bret can do is have Tony by his side on the day of the wedding.
Makenzi LeMay
Bridesmaid
Danielle and 'Mak' met their freshman year on bid-day for their sorority, Gamma phi Beta. From the first time Danielle met Mak she knew she was going to like her! Mak was outgoing, loud, artsy, fun loving, and caring... all the things Danielle loves! The two have shared more laughs than one can count, memorable moments, trips, late night heart to hearts and Mak even became Danielle's Pledge mom! Danielle is always thankful for all the love and support Mak has given her through the years; whether it's cheering her on at a performance, helping her with her technological struggles, Lifting her up at concerts so she can see or giving awesome pep talks! Danielle was honored to be in Makenzi and Johns wedding last fall and is equally honored to have her be a part of this special day!
Craig Krupski
Groomsman
Craig and Bret originally met through their love for hockey. They both played on the same hockey team from elementary school through high school and have shared countless memories at the rink. Their friendship at the ice rink translated to school and beyond. There was never an evening after school or weekend where Bret and Craig were not hanging out. It has been a luxury for Bret to call Craig a best friend for the last 15 years. Craig has always been there for Bret and is the definition of a loyal friend. Bret is more than honored to have Craig stand by his side at the wedding.
Monica Cohen
Bridesmaid
THANK GOD FOR BIRTHRIGHT!... hence how Danielle and Monica met. As mentioned before, Danielle is a strong believer in fate, and meeting Monica was one of those life moments that Danielle will always be thankful for! When they first arrived at the airport for their departure to Israel the girls didn't really talk (it was 4am and neither of them are morning people), but Danielle did take mental note that she was short, brunette, and had a cute purse... so they would probably hit it off! When they finally got settled in Israel and got to talking they were instantly a dynamic duo. Basically attached at the hip for majority of the trip, Danielle already knew they would be friends for life! Monica is an extraordinarily soul who has filled Danielles days with so much love and happiness!
Max Vykouk
Groomsman
Max and Bret have been friends since 7th grade and continued their friendship at the University of Iowa. Max is one of those friends who is always looking out for others and his picture should be included with Dictionary.com’s definition of “True Friend”. Max has the ability to bring any party to life and there will never be a dull moment when hanging out with him. Coming across a friendship like Bret and Max’s is very rare because of how effortless it is. Despite living thousands of miles away, the integrity of their friendship remains constant. Bret is truly grateful to call Max a best friend and to have his support on the big day!
Skye Cornwell
Bridesmaid
Skye is Danielle's "Co-worker" (inside joke... don't worry Danielle's not actually that mean) who just so happened to become one of her most favorite people ever! Starting their friendship by pretending to bully each other Skye and Danielle have been close ever since they were hired for the Hannah Kahn Dance Company. Connecting over their dry sense of humor, love of dance, and vest for life Skye and Danielle have developed a special bond that Danielle is more than thankful for. Skye is not only a beautiful dancer but a beautiful human inside and out. She has played an important role for Danielle in her first few years of "real adult life" post college and Danielle feels so lucky to get to dance alongside someone she admires, respects, and loves so very much!
Ryan Anderson
Groomsman
Bret first met Ryan when Karly Schultz (Maid of Honor) started dating him. When Bret and Ryan first met there was an instant friendship. They both share a love for hockey, sports in general and Old Fashioneds. These two have spent countless hours on the golf course and have only gotten closer once Bret officially moved to Denver in July of 2018. Bret is honored to call Ryan a best friend and cannot thank him enough for making his move to Denver effortless. Moving across the country is never an easy process, but Ryan has always been there for Bret since day one. Bret is more than excited to see what this friendship has in store for the future.
Makena Taylor
Junior Bridesmaid
Makena is Danielle's cousin, but to Danielle she is so much more than that! From the first time Danielle met her when she was just a tiny peanut she loved her! As Makena started to get older her radiant personality began to show more and more... she is one of the sharpest little humans Danielle has ever known! Makena never misses a beat, has a great sense of humor and is wise beyond her years. Every time Danielle gets to be with Makena is an absolute treat and she loves getting to be the "fun" older cousin. Danielle is thankful for the opportunity to have Makena in her wedding as her amazing mom, Erin, was also a Junior Bridesmaid for Michelle & Grant's wedding. Watching Makena grow into a beautiful young woman and be a positive influence in her life is one of Danielle's greatest joys!
Lexi Fu
Junior Bridesmaid
Danielle first met Lexi when she was introduced to the Fu side of Bret's family 3 years ago. Before they met, Danielle had been anxiously waiting to meet Lexi because of all the adorable stories Bret and Derek had been sharing! Danielle was also hoping (but secretly knew) that Lexi would one day become her Nice! Lexi has more than lived up to the Balestri Boys hype and is one awesome little gal! Danielle loves spending time with Lexi, listening to her jokes and hilarious stories and watching her devour meals like a 16yr old boy (which is saying a lot coming from Danielle)! Danielle is so happy not only have Lexi be a part of her big day, but also be a part of her life! Danielle looks forward to more family vaycays, playing pranks on Derek and spoiling Lexi rotten!
Quincy Kahn
Honored Attendant
Danielle still vividly remembers the first time she ever got to hold Quincy. Danielle was first, ecstatic that she had a baby in the family to play with and second, that she was finally old enough to actually hold a baby by herself (Quincy was the cutest bundle of rolls you have ever seen)! Although they are roughly 7 years apart the cousins are similar in many ways; Both have a strong dedication and passion for their sport, love spending time with family, and have the mouth of a sailor (sorry about that one fam)! Over the past few years the girls have grown increasingly close and shared many special moments together. Danielle loves every minute she gets to spend with with Quincy and is so happy to have her guidance and support on this special day!
Lucas Strother
Usher
Lucas is the little bro Danielle always wished she had! Originally the Strother's nanny Danielle tried her best to lay down the law with Lucas, who was 11 at the time. Needless to say the whole "hard ass nanny" act didn't last long and soon the two of them had inside jokes, a hypothetical swear jar and a summer bucket-list! For the next 4 years Danielle was "Danny the nanny" until one day Danielle realized that Lucas and Maren really didn't need a nanny anymore, but just wanted to hangout as friends turned family! It fills Danielle's heart to know that she has the love and support of Lucas, especially on this big day! Danielle and Bret couldn't imagine their life without Lucas and all the amazing memories they have shared! P.s. Danielle will always be "the cool nanny"!
Luke McCarthy
Usher
Luke is just one of those guys who you meet and instantly want around all the time! Luke and Bret have been friends for over 8 years after meeting during fall rush at the University of Iowa. Bret remembers meeting Luke during the madness and then joining the same fraternity by chance. Accompanied by the third and final piece of the puzzle, Evan Ross, these three navigated (stumbled) their way through the Iowa City bars, tailgates and Chipotle like the badass ‘Tripod’ that they were. Since day one, Luke was there for the endless nights and early tailgate wake-ups. Luke is truly one of the most genuine and loyal friends Bret has ever had and played a big role in the semester Bret and Danielle met in college. The couple can always count on Luke for a great time and lots of laughs!