Alex is a dear friend, passionate lover, and avid hiker. Best friends with Brian since they locked eyes in freshman year English class. Alex has reluctantly helped Brian with every one of his schemes since. In trade Brian is a role model for Alex’s son, Fred and Alex’s only semi-reliable contractor.

Melissa has been by Kaila’s side since the tender age of 13. They are each other’s ride or die. The definition of chosen family. It’s cheesy but true. Melissa is the Barbie disco ball to Kaila’s sequined-slap-bracelet-filled rainbow piñata. Together they can do anything good.

Brian’s big brother. They’ve gotten along and been close friends since early childhood and no speech will tell you otherwise. The Lloyd Christmas to Brian’s Harry Dunne. He’s always known how to make Brian laugh (usually the most inappropriate thing).

Kaila has known Carly since 1989 (the year, not the Taylor Swift album). They are lucky enough to be cousins but grew up more like sisters. They spent endless summers and sleepovers together. One time they even stowed Carly away in the trunk of Aunt Kimmie’s van, only revealing her presence halfway home. This ensured she wouldn’t be returned until the next morning. Carly now lives with her beautiful children and adequate husband in Ohio. The distance is tough but they’re grateful for every minute they have together.

Lindsay has been a sounding board for so many of Brian’s bad ideas. A good friend since early high school. Brian even asked Lindsay to prom. Brian’s parents still think they might get together someday.

Lina is Kaila’s new sister-in-law!! They became quick friends when Lina came to her first Most family Christmas in 2022. Since then, they’ve gotten to know each other the way most modern friends do… by exchanging memes and videos on Instagram. They share a love for teaching and good food. Gratefully Lina helped solidify the new family tradition of playing games when they’re all together. Kaila is so happy to have Lina in their lives. She can no longer say that Derek is good for nothing.

Graham and Brian became friends through Alex in college and grad school over a shared love of music, politics and the outdoors. Graham is Can You Barrett Trivia’s unpaid expert on the celebrity gossip column.

Kaila has adored her cousin, Joseph, from the moment of his birth. He eventually caught on and they’ve been friends ever since. These days you can catch them enjoying a boardwalk arcade or lawn seats at a show. After being the ring bearer in her first wedding, Joe had Kaila promise that if she ever got remarried he’d hold the same title. Well… the time has come and these two couldn’t be more thrilled with their agreement.