Wedding Party
Tara Finn
Matron of Honor
I met Tara in middle school when we were on opposing dodgeball teams in summer rec. A few days later, as fate would have it, we ran into each other at the local meat deli where we forced our moms to schedule a playdate for us. Since then, we've ran our first half marathon together and have cheered each other on separately at the NYC marathon. We’ve also done less socially acceptable things since then but do you really think I’m going to write about the nights we got chased by the cops for underage drinking, perhaps some of the most fun nights a teenager can have, on my wedding website??? She's a wife, mom of 2, full-time math teacher and celebrator of Pi day, but don't ask her to do math in her head - she doesn't like that=)
Christian Merkovsky
Best Man
As John's best (and only) brother, Chris and John have been together most of their lives. While the start may have been rocky (do all younger brothers love to start trouble?), John and Chris have since grown into best friends, even getting the chance to live together in Hoboken in 2020. A deeply kind-hearted and genuine human being, John is lucky to have Chris as a brother. Chris recently moved in with his girlfriend Kirsty!
Jori Gaudio
Bridesmaid
Jori and I met as freshmen on the lacrosse team at Marist. I’ve experienced some of the most physically and mentally challenging moments of my life with Jori next to me. Does 5am wake up calls to run a gauntlet and then lift weights until class at 8am sound fun to anyone? We survived because despite being exhausted, we made each other laugh constantly. I can share anything with Jori and never feel judged... no matter how weird and out of touch with reality my thinking can be at times. She's a loyal friend and the best hype woman a girl can ask for.
Brad Roberts
Groomsman
Brad and John originally met at their hometown gym, but like many great NJ friendships, they truly bonded over irish car bombs and crappy dance moves at the Hoboken SantaCon. Like many New Jerseyans, he has since fled to NYC. A renowned foodie and fantastic host, Brad is someone who always finds a way to make you feel special. Brad is also getting married in 2024 to the love of his life Morgan!
Melissa Maier
Bridesmaid
Melissa aka "Mul" is my longest standing friend and the only friend where I can admit to using our moms as communication tools (they are besties too). We date all the way back to kindergarten and girl scouts. We saw each other every day for years... until college, when she took off to play lacrosse at Denver and never came back=p!! Mul is such a dedicated friend; she'll drive hours (in any weather conditions!) to meet up with me when I'm on her side of the country. Our most recent adventure together was a group trip to Iceland where we snowmobiled, chased waterfalls, and soaked in blue lagoons.
Chris Jacober
Groomsman
One of John's oldest friends, Chris has been there through late-night firepits, questionable high-school relationships, and really the majority of good (and bad) decisions John has made (so feel free to ask him for stories). Through all this time Chris has always been a ready partner and a great friend (while still finding time for his 2-hour gym sessions). Congrats to Chris on his new job as a teacher!
Katie Haas
Bridesmaid
I've always wanted a sister and it became official in October 2018 when Katie married my older brother! Katie and I share similar tastes in music, craft beer, and travel destinations (based on her pic, I think I'll be going to Zion next!). She is an amazing home decorator and inspires me to get in touch with my crafty side every time I'm inside her house. Katie is a great sounding board when life is downright loco and/or I have another running injury=) I can always count on her to be excited for me when I need a cheering squad as she prioritizes family above all else!
Garrett Maples
Groomsman
John's roommate at business school, John met Garrett while visiting MIT for an admissions event. While the exact details of the conversation remain hazy, John is confident that the words 'Mr. Brightside" came up at least 3 times. A proud Texan, Garrett is equally comfortable day-drinking at the Rodeo or exploring the back streets of Istanbul (all despite the fact that Garrett has yet to have his first real hangover). No matter where in the world he is though, Garrett always makes time for his friends. Sadly we're losing Garrett and his wife Rebecca to their next adventure in Singapore, so get a drink with them while they're still around!
Nicole Haas
Bridesmaid
Another sister! Official as recently as March 2023. Nicole is a lover of dogs, Shania Twain, and festive wreaths! Nicole and I have never lived in the same state, however, she is always willing to spend time catching up with me on the phone. She truly cares about the people around her and works hard to keep the family close and up-to-date. In fact, her and Sean visited us in Miami only a few months after we moved down here. She loves hosting people in her beautiful home and makes holiday gatherings extra special.
Xavier Tejeda
Groomsman
John first met Xavier when he injured himself cooking during his first week at college in San Diego. Quickly bonding over their love of whiskey, politics, and Game of Thrones, they became immediate friends. While they haven't managed to live in the same city since, they still make time regularly to catch up and grab a beer (or 5). Xavier recently moved to NYC (well, LIC) to pursue his passion of being the world's best (dressed) Salsa dancer… ask him about his upcoming competition!