Wedding Party
Hailey Gravel
Maid of Honor
Where do we start with these two...Hailey and Isabella met their freshman year at Loyola Chicago in Isabella's dorm building "Mertz till it Hurtz". First starting by fighting over a boy, they evolved into the greatest friends when they ended up becoming roommates sophmore year until they graduated. Throughout the 4 years the two had many "college" experiences, enjoyed adventuring around Chicago (especially biking down the lakeshore path), found the greatest little restaurant, "Asian Taco" (never actually knew the real name of the place, but it was unreal), and drank way too many margaritas at Cesar's Killer Margaritas. Both being east coast girlies, they continued their friendship once they both moved back home. Adventures continued on the east coast and especially once Isabella moved to Boston. Bruins games, bars, movie nights and face masks, hiking in New Hampshire, hanging out with the Gravel's and enjoying Beth's amazing sunday breakfast, and of course continuing their college tradition of snuggling in bed and gossiping. Now the two are even further apart with Isabella in Amsterdam, but the adventure continues and the friendship is stronger than ever.
Joe D'Alelio
Best Man
Joe and Dave go way back, all the way to Hilltop Preschool and you could even argue Joe is Dave's first friend. They grew up in North Reading playing youth sports, whiffle ball, and street hockey while maintaining a similar social circle. Into college and post college, they continued their close friendship participating in the same Fantasy Football league, golfing, and frequenting live sporting events and watering holes in the Boston area. Over the years, Joe has been a regular at the Lake Monomonac cottage and Cranes Beach as Dave has been at the D'Alelio's pool. Whether it is something from past or present, Dave and Joe are almost guaranteed to share a laugh and good discussion. There are too many funny inside jokes to list, but Joe's "man of few words" style is a perfect compliment to whatever Dave's communication style is!
Mona McCartney
Bridesmaid
Mona and Isabella met when they both were accepted into the EMC (now Dell EMC) sales program in Franklin, MA . Both being from out of state, they decided to become roommates and the rest is history. It was an immediate match and the two became inseparable. They shared a similar background in both being first generation of immigrant parents and remained roommates until Mona received a job offer back in her home state of New Jersey. Through the years they were roommates they experienced a lot together - Many laughs and many cries, Red Sox's games, Celtics games, (even though Mona is a completely converted Philly fan now...we'll let it slide), concerts, bars..many bars, boys, movies and shows. And of course I couldn't end this without mentioning their local watering hole, Coppersmith, in which they spent many nights drinking jamo ginger's (Mona), vodka soda's (Isabella), and always eating their wings, caesar salad, and fries. Even though they are no longer roommates they remain the best of friends, miles apart.
Victor Gresek
Groomsman
Vic and Dave met in the second grade and became fast friends with their extroverted styles and sense of humor matching quite well. Growing up, they were always grouped together given the alphabetic proximity of their last names, so needless to say, there are many stories that still make their ex-teachers shutter. Post college, Dave spent a lot of time at Vic's apartment in South Boston and were even neighbors for a period of time. In their adult lives, they have grown up (a bit) but still get together to watch WWE events and shoot pool as if they were in the Second grade again. Whether it is golfing, going to a reliable bar/restaurant in North Reading, or just hanging out Vic and Dave always find something to talk about and even more to laugh about.
Jessica Griggs
Bridesmaid
Future sister-in-law! From the beginning these two hit it off with Jess often greeting Isabella with a loud "GIRLFRIEND!!" Jess has always been so sweet and supportive, including Isabella in everything, and going out of her way to make her a part of the family. She is the first person to offer a compliment about clothing, makeup, or hair before both discuss blending techniques and where to shop for the latest fashion. Their bond runs extra deep and strong by commiserating over having to live and deal with Dave; something both are traumatized by! Even though their story is short, there are many years of memories and experiences to come. AND, we must note, that Jess gives the best hugs!
Alessandro Togni
Groomsman
Alessandro is the first member of the immediate Togni family that Dave met during a visit to Boston. They hit it off rather quickly, especially since Dave's graduation gift to Alessandro was Twisted Tea! Over the years they have spent time practicing (and failing at) golf, scootering the streets of Rome and enjoying a wide array of cuisine (Bar Taco, Clarke's, Neapolitan pizza to name a few). Dave is still trying to translate the language that Alessandro's generation speaks, but he for sure has become "fam."
Jessica Holbrook
Bridesmaid
The cousin that has always felt like an older sister. With the families being so close, Jess and Isabella spent a lot of time together growing up despite the age difference. Being the first one in the family to have kids, Jess popped out the sweetest little girl and the craziest but cutest little boy. Whenever Isabella gets to see them she gets the biggest hug (must run in the family) from Juliana, that just warms her heart. Even though now they see each other less due to kids and Isabella being in Amsterdam, Jess remains just as loving and gives the tightest and most loving hugs. Who would've thought the two Jessica's would be best huggers. Must be something with the name...
Lee Giunta
Groomsman
Lee is another "G" that found himself in the same classrooms as Dave throughout Middle and High School and as neighbors in both Allston/Brighton and South Boston. Growing up, they listened to 50 Cent and Lil Wayne, wore sports jerseys, and quoted Seinfeld. These days, they have traded in the jerseys for Polo shirts and rap music for sports radio (you can't outgrow Seinfeld). Lee and Dave have spent a number of nights out and a number of days on the golf course together, with a lot of Training Day and Boardwalk Empire quotes mixed in. These two have shared some of the best moments in Boston sports history together as well. Fun fact: They attended Mac Jones' debut together and fortunately their friendship survived at debacle. From the Fourth grade on, Lee has always been someone Dave can rely on and trust, whether it be for a good laugh or genuine and thoughtful advice.
Jordan Donofrio
Bridesmaid
The greatest addition to the family was Jordan! Family gatherings, family vacations, dinners in Southie at Jordan and Ray's place, and spending time with the two cutest kids EVER, it is no doubt that Jordan has truly become an amazing addition. Though miles apart and Isabella no longer being able to pop over to help the kids (mind you..she LOVES doing it), seeing Jordan is always a great time. Her kind soul can soothe anyone.
Matthew Murphy
Groomsman
Matt and Dave too met in pre-school and played on youth hockey and baseball teams together in North Reading. In High School and into college, they always drove the social agenda, getting the crew together, and hosting. Both were present for the legendary road trips to Daytona Beach, Baltimore, and Montreal as well as a trip or two out to Las Vegas. Often times, Dave finds himself exhausted after laughing profusely at Matt's hilarious jokes, observations, and TV or movie quotes. While Dave is yet to see a show or movie that Matt hasn't, he knows Matt's recommendations are always rock solid. Over the years, Matt and the entire Murphy family have always been hospitable, fun, and welcoming to our entire group.
Olivia Donofrio
Flower Girl
Jeremy Goldberg
Groomsman
Jeremy and Dave met in the third grade through Joe and became fast friends. Given their last names, both were often in similar Middle School and High School classrooms together. In this photo, they are flanking Red Sox legend, Lou Merloni, whom they met at a Boston sports radio event. Jeremy and Dave have attended countless live sporting events together (home and away) having enjoyed some top notch tailgating and witnessing Boston sports history on multiple occasions. Jeremy and his family have made Dave one of their own over the years, including him in family cookouts/dinners, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, and being his first ever Cutco sale. Jeremy has always exhibited loyalty and been there for Dave even in the toughest of times and circumstances. Whether it is quoting Ric Flair, meeting Scott Zolak (yes they met him too), or discussing the musings of Michael Felger, Jeremy and Dave always enjoy each other's company and laughter.
Luca Donofrio
Ring Bearer
Ben Mordini
Officiant
Ben and Dave first met at BCG, sparking quite the "bromance" and cofounding the BCG Boston softball team together. At office retreats, work parties, and weddings, Ben and Dave were/are often the entertainment, taking control of the dancefloor or creating one! Given Ben moved to Boston from out of town, Dave introduced him to his social circle and he was a natural fit into the "Friday Night Thrills" softball team. When they aren't singing Macho Man by the Village People, they are probably chest bumping, playing softball, golfing, or cooking a steak. In just a short time knowing one another, they have become extremely close and have built a strong, trustworthy, and genuine bond. For all of the laughs, there have been just as many real conversations in support of one another. Dave officiated Ben's wedding and they made such great duo that there HAD to be a sequel!
Raffaela Togni
Mother of the Bride
The best mother a daughter could ask for! Isabella is the woman that she is today, because of her mother. Lina has always shown Isabella and Alessandro the importance of sacrifice, family, and embracing the little moments. When Isebella was young, Lina was a super-mom; driving Alessandro and Isabella to and from school, sports, ballet, doctors’ appointments, play dates, and more. She nurtured a familial relationship for Isabella and Alessandro that resulted in an extremely close family unit. Lina knew the importance of having her children spend time with their grandparents and Isabella has fond memories of scarfing down Nonna Teresa's amazing Italian dishes and watching Italian soccer inches from the TV with Nonno Vincenzo. Lina truly enjoyed sharing Italian traditions with Isabella, which she cherishes to this day. Lina has been nothing but supportive and caring, even when her children tease her ridiculous pronunciations or miswording... like “Z Box” instead of “X Box!” There is never a shortness of laughter with Lina and her children!
Robin Griggs
Mother of the Groom
Most people will say "you look just like your Mother" to Dave, which he takes as a compliment! A role model of support and care, Robin exercised this professionally, but more importantly in family life, showing Dave and Jess more love than anyone could, putting her kids and husband first. She may not know how her phone works, but she does know how to ace a school project, cheer Dave on at sporting events, be the field trip nurse, and always make Dave's friends and Isabella feel welcome. Robin has a hard time staying mad at Dave for too long as his inappropriate comments and rude observations are typically followed by some sort of quick wit that elicits a cackle! Over the years they have laughed about a lot, cried together, and spent more time discussing King of Queens and Breaking Bad than any two people should!
Ivano Togni
Father of the Bride
And of course, who would Isabella be without her father? Ivano has always been a supportive and motivating father and role model to Isabella and Alessandro. Like Lina, Ivano always stressed the importance of culture and family to his children, bringing Isabella and Alessandro to Switzerland each year to visit his side of the family. Isabella has always cherished these trips and considers Switzerland to be her favorite place in the world! Ivano built an amazing career in technology- a passion that he has passed down to both of his children, who now have their own successful careers in technology companies. Despite the physical distance between Isabella and Ivano, their relationship continues to grow stronger and more wholesome. While living abroad in Amsterdam, Isabella still calls Ivano to help her with all life’s little questions- from taxes and salaries to why the Wi-Fi connectors aren't working. He is the smartest man Isabella knows and the person she can always turn to. Finally, it cannot go without mentioning, the true, unwavering bond that Isabella and Ivano share over their unfathomable love for Swiss Cheese and Salametto!
David Griggs
Father of the Groom
Dave's namesake, but with different middle names, they are two peas in a pod! For all the looks Dave gets from his Mother, he gets his personality from Big Dave (also known as Big Wave Dave and Sand Bar Dave). Growing up, Big Dave taught little Dave how to skate, ski, shoot hoops, hit a baseball, play tennis, and enjoy an NFL Sunday. Some of Little Dave's fondest memories with Big Dave are watching the Pats/Raiders Snow Bowl, the 2001 Super Bowl, and attending the A-Rod/Jason Varitek fight game. On top of that, they have been to countless shows (Dropkick Murphys, Wiz Khalifa, Steve Miller Band, No Doubt to name a few) together and even saw Sebastian Maniscalco live in his very early days. Always the host with the most, Big Dave has made the Lake Monomonac cottage and Cranes Beach a beacon for family and friends while organizing trips to OBX, Sanibel Island, and Sugarloaf. These two often find themselves debating who is funnier between Frank Costanza and Arthur Spooner or cracking up at David Puddy and Newman clips. From night boat rides on the lake, to early morning runs on the slopes, to shooting pool and playing darts, Big Dave truly is one of "the guys." It is no surprise that Little Dave often hears, "Dude...your Dad is cooler than you!"