Wedding Party
Shannel Beckles
Matron of Honor
As the younger sister of Senica, I've had the privilege of watching her blossom from a reserved child into the vibrant person many of you know today. This transformation began around age 11 when she discovered the Sweet Valley High books. These stories unlocked a more exuberant side of her, igniting a passion for reading that shaped her life. From Sweet Valley High, Senica's literary journey took her to the magical worlds of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings. These books fueled her imagination, inspiring dreams and goals that seemed boundless. Growing up, Senica would spend countless hours engrossed in her books, often preferring fictional worlds to the outdoors. Yet, she was always eager to share her literary adventures with anyone willing to discuss them. As time passed, Senica's signature style emerged, complete with rags for “fetes,” decks of cards for “all fours,” and a napkin to fend off pollen and dust allergies. Despite our different interests, my sisters and I frequently attended parties and fetes together. While Saphia and I often drifted from the outdoors, Senica continued her adventures, always finding new stories and experiences to explore. A pivotal moment in Senica's life was meeting Jason, who shares her adventurous spirit. From the beginning, it was clear they were perfect for each other. As they embark on this new chapter together, I look forward to seeing them continue to dream, set goals, and achieve them side by side.
Matthew Morris
Best Man
“Close friends are truly life’s treasures. Sometimes they know us better than we know ourselves.” – Vincent Van Gogh Jason is that friend for me, and boy, have we had some adventures! We met in 5th grade, where we were the coolest kids around. As we moved into junior high, our friendship only got stronger, and our saxophone skills were legendary as we blasted those school hallways with our tunes. Jason has always been the truest friend and brother anyone could ask for, and it's wild to think we've been friends for 25 years. No matter where life took us, we always picked right up and made sure to be there for each other. Every time we hang out, it feels like no time has passed at all. We've gone from playing cards at the lunch table to having sleepovers and whipping up random concoctions from whatever we could find in the kitchen. And now, Jason is the godfather to my son, Max. I remember the day Jason told me about Satoya. He was so excited, and I was itching to meet her. Now, I’m stoked for the next 25 years and beyond, as our families grow up together, continuing the epic friendship we've always had. It's an absolute honor to stand beside Jason and Satoya as they get married. Love you both!
Saphia Beckles
Matron of Honor
Satoya is my middle sister and one of the greatest blessings in my life—a forever best friend and confidant. In her early childhood, Satoya was reserved and not much of a risk-taker, but over the years, she has blossomed into an unstoppable force. I have admired how she embraces life and makes the best of every situation. I cherish the souvenirs she has brought back from her travels around the world, and she never fails to remember my birthday with thoughtful gifts that truly reflect our bond. She is not only a dependable friend but also a true confidante. The three of us sisters are genuine, but Satoya has a remarkable ability to let people in while maintaining healthy boundaries. Her emotional intelligence and problem-solving skills are exceptional; she has a knack for organizing projects and rallying everyone to aim for success. She's truly the best cheerleader for her friends and family. She’s a great aunt to Jax and Sophy. I’ll be forever grateful for her using her time to care for Sophy when I had to go back out to work after my maternity leave. I’m beyond excited to stand by you as your matron of honor, celebrating this wonderful chapter in your life. Together, you and Jason will embark on more adventures, filled with love, laughter, and all the beautiful moments that come your way. Congratulations, Satoya and Jason! Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and unforgettable memories!
Brian Tam
Groomsman
Although you lived right above me for 22 years, with the occasional head nods in passing, we never really spoke and got to know one another. Everything changed in 2008 when I started to work at our local Rite Aid, not knowing you had already been working there. Shockkkk!!! Fast forward 16 years later, we've been through many heartaches rooting for our NY Mets, season after season, that we need the daily brewski to ease the tough losses. But Ya gotta believe! LFGM!!! We've enjoyed many trips. From our road trips to Maryland and Philly (incredibly memorable when our regular guy, Tino's car nearly burned a hole through the floor board on the Jersey Turnpike lol, to us flying out to Austin and enjoying the amazing bbq. I'm glad to be able to call you my brother and excited to welcome Satoya to the fam. "With us, it's personal." I can't wait to celebrate with you guys on your momentous day! Love you both!!
Kristle Gangadeen
Bridesmaid
It was wayyyy back in the first weeks of high school that Satoya and I discovered a shared joy in the world of books. Our friendship was sealed over intense discussions about the drama unfolding in the Sweet Valley: Senior Year series. Our friendship has turned its own pages over the last two decades (yikes!). We’ve travelled through countless stories, adventures and the occasional misadventure on our “tourist days”. It’s been a running joke that I’ve visited her everywhere she’s lived except New York. But that’s about to change! I’m heading to New York and it’s not for just any visit; it’s the one where I get to stand (and freeze🥶) beside my friend as she starts her most exciting chapter yet. Can’t wait to celebrate your big day! See you in NYC.
Ivan Porro
Groomsman
Jason and I met in the summer of 2009 through our mutual friend Brian on our way to Six Flags and it’s safe to say that it has been a great adventure ever since. Within minutes of that hour and a half long drive from Flushing New York to Jackson Township New Jersey we bonded over our love of hip-hop music. That shared enthusiasm for the art form led to many car rides on new album release days and best of all, a handful of incredible outings at concerts. Truthfully speaking we really should have started an album reaction channel on YouTube, oh well jaja. Jason is someone I feel fortunate to be able to call a friend for the last 15 years. From working our first job together at Rite Aid to reaching many life milestones through the years, we’ve had each other’s backs through it all. I couldn’t be happier for Jason knowing that he has found a woman as supportive and adventurous as Satoya to build a life with. When you see them together, you immediately see how strong of a team they make. I feel privileged to have been chosen to be one of Jason‘s groomsmen for this beautiful occasion. I am excited for him to embark on this next adventure with his lovely bride to be, and I can’t wait to take part and celebrating the union of these two truly wonderful human beings. Cheers to the soon to be Mr. and Mrs. Hoggard.
Amy Furman
Bridesmaid
Satoya and I bonded in college over a shared sense of humor, an interest in people and travel, and a deep commitment to being of service to others. This led us to complete two terms of AmeriCorps service after college and has kept us laughing through our years of friendship that started with school, and grew to working, living, and traveling together (sometimes all at the same time). While my friendship with Satoya often feels like one big celebration, I am especially excited to celebrate her and Jason's relationship at their wedding this December!
Daniel Carreiro
Groomsman
Hi everyone, I'm Dan, one of Jason's groomsmen. Jason and I first met back in 2008 while playing NBA Live 08 online, and our friendship has only grown stronger since. A defining moment in our bond was when Jason drove all the way from New York to Massachusetts to meet me and our mutual friend Chad, solidifying our trio. Since then, we've shared countless experiences—catching games at Fenway Park, attending UFC 220, and traveling together to London and Spain. It's been a privilege to watch Jason grow over the years, and I’m incredibly thrilled to celebrate his marriage to Satoya.
Shari Elcock
Bridesmaid
I met Satoya during our college days at St. John's University, where we instantly connected over our shared Trinidadian roots and love for life's simple pleasures - great food, exciting games (all fours), and captivating Broadway shows. But our bond went beyond just shared interests; we also shared a deep spiritual foundation that drew us closer together. Over the years, our friendship has grown stronger, and I've had the privilege of watching her blossom into the kind, compassionate, and strong woman she is today. She's more than just a friend; she's like a sister to me, and I'm honored to stand by her side on this momentous occasion. I've witnessed her love story unfold, and I couldn't be happier for her and Jason. I'm thrilled to be part of her bridal party and celebrate this new chapter in her life. Congratulations, dear friend!
Daniel Bertolino
Groomsman
Satoya and I met at the beginning of our public health program at Emory University, and we hit it off right away! We bonded over our shared passion for making a difference, and desire to get the most out of our time in Atlanta. After graduation, we both moved back to New York City and our friendship continued to grow. Now, as she's getting ready to tie the knot, and I’m so happy to be a part of Satoya and Jason’s special day!
Jacqueline Vicente
Bridesmaid
Although we both graduated from St. John’s, our friendship began in Lourdes, France. We went from sharing a room in a foreign hostel to being roomies in Astoria. Some of our fondest memories revolve around celebrating Satoya’s birthday and enjoying good food (doubles, bagels, taco truck). Even though we are separated by distance, we still manage to stay in each other’s lives. I was grateful to have Satoya in my wedding party (she flew in from Kenya). Now I can’t wait to be apart of her big day!
Chad Branco
Groomsman
Hello Everyone, my name is Chad and I am lucky enough to be one of Jason’s groomsmen. I’ve known Jason for 16 years and we have bonded over that time with our shared love of games, sports, music, and mutual friends (aka Dan). When Jason proposed to Satoya I drive down to photograph the occasion and then spent the evening with them, my wife, and my daughter in Central Park. I was lucky enough to have Jason stand for me during my wedding as a groomsman, and am so thankful I have the ability to do the same for him as he joins with Satoya on their special day.
Samantha Hoggard
Bridesmaid
I first met Satoya when she came to our house for Thanksgiving. She was easy to talk to and I had no problem sharing stories with her about growing up with my brother. Jason was laughing along with me and being a great sport,as usual, but deep down I knew what he was really thinking. I can honestly say that I am extremely lucky to have grown up with such a wonderful, easygoing and supportive older brother like Jason. I could not be more excited for my brother that he has found such an amazing person to share his life with and can’t wait for the wedding of Jason and Satoya in December!
Constantine Katergaris
Groomsman
Robert Frost wrote a famous poem musing about a road not taken. I must admit I don't think I can relate. The last sixteen years of friendship with Jason is the only road that seems to have gotten us to where we should be today. The road that started at Rite Aid where we'd often goof off and do reckless things despite a store full of customers. The road where we'd see countless movies. The road where we would play basketball and perhaps get beaten by kids who were younger and faster than us. The road of out-of-state trips to see the sites and surprise old friends. The road of countless stories. I don't think I could ponder over a road not taken as the road we are on has led us here. You've found Satoya who I truly know is the part of the road where you carry on and be the best version of yourself and live happily ever after. Perhaps the only road I would have preferred to have taken is the one where I'd text you saying I'm waiting by the hydrant and you actually came down in a timely fashion. In the end I wish you and Satoya the best road possible. PS I thought the whole car burning a hole through its floor was an experience worth having. Almost as good as hit that ….But hey I'm just a regular guy .
Gratiana Boyd
Mother of the Bride
Robin Beckles
Father of the Bride
Pat Hoggard
Mother of the Groom
Glen Hoggard
Father of the Groom