Wedding Day

The Bradley Estate

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

We technically first met on Hinge, only to then realize we both worked at Boston Childrens Hospital. Manny was working as a security officer, and I was working as a clinical assistant in the Emergency Room. As Manny likes to tell the story, thank God I responded when I did because he was going to unmatch with me. Our first date was at The Mission Bar & Grill. I was just shy of my 21st birthday and was living in Mission Hill at the time, funny because Mission Hill is where Manny was born and raised. From that night on, our relationship flourished. We went on weekend getaways, attended sports games, enjoyed many dinner dates, all while enjoying each other’s company and getting to know each other. Fast forward to 2020, the year no one wants to remember. We unofficially moved into an apartment in Weymouth together. Then came our fur baby, Louie. I always wanted a dog of my own and I didnt have to do much convincing on Mannys part. His only dog he had growing up he tried flushing down the toilet, but we won’t get into that. I did plenty of research on breeds, local breeders, etc and soon fell in love with an all-black Labradoodle down in PA. A few days later, we hit the road to bring him home. Louie (born as Ross) is the light of our light, our pride and joy, and our best friend. Raising a dog together was a big step in testing both our patience and strength as a couple, but we wouldnt change any of it for the world. Months later, the world shut down. I was working the frontlines as a nurse on a COVID unit and Manny was able to be a stay-at-home dog dad and working remotely. If we were able to make it through a pandemic and come out stronger than ever, I knew our relationship was for forever. The following year we moved back to the city in West Roxbury. We both continued to save our money, as our end goal was to own our first home together. A short year and some change later, open house after open house, and a few failed inspections, we landed on Myrtle St in Norwood. Yes, its only a 3 min drive from my mother and yes, we see her at least twice a week. Safe to say we had our triumphs with this house. Some unexpected costs that people love to remind us is part of being a homeowner. We do love Myrtle and have learned so much about being homeowners and having such big responsibilities. Our first home has taught us more about our relationship and our ability to overcome financial challenges as they come along. Of course youre wondering now, wheres the ring? Well, I always told Manny I wanted Louie to be involved in the process, which I thought he knew. But instead on September 2nd, 2023, on a vacation in Charleston, South Carolina, Manny got down on one knee and proposed. Truthfully, I blacked out during this time and had no idea what he said but we were both crying and of course I said yes! We called all our family and friends to share the big news, and the whole time my mom knew! If you know Mary Ellen, you know shes not one to keep a secret well, so good on you Mom. It did come as a small surprise to me, as Louie wasnt there, but it was just as perfect as I would have imagined. And now here we are, wedding planning! Check back here for all you need to know about our upcoming nuptials on May 17th, 2025!! We cant wait to celebrate with all of you!

Manny & Mel's Love Story

Our Story

Photos

Melissa's not so little sister. If asked who her favorite sister is, she would say Hazel (my mom's dog) Will always tell you her opinion, asked or not asked. Big foodie but you'd never be able to tell. First thing she does when she enters our house is opens our pantry and/or fridge. 

Meghan McManus

Melissa's best friend since second grade at Downey Elementary. Recently married (hence the matron) in a fabulous wedding in Aruba. She is Melissa but blonde. Prefers a night in watching Lifetime movies, Fred's homemade popcorn, and bed by 9pm. 

Sarah Vanwagenen

She’s not only my boss, but more importantly she’s one of my best friends. Emma is always down for a good laugh, a couple drinks, and a fun time. From the halls of north 7 to the walls of JJ Foley, Emma is the most supportive, funniest, and most genuine pals there is. Cheers to you Emma!! 

Emma Powers

Some of the first words I said to Elise when she started on North 7 with me was "Hi I'm Melissa and we're going to be friends" Not weird at all, but now she's in my wedding. We may no longer work together anymore, but whenever us girls get together, we sure know how to have fun. 

Elise Roy

I remember when I first laid my eyes on Ant, the first thing I said to myself was, "I cannot stand his ass". Over a decade later, Anthonie has been one of the most genuine and supportive friends in my life. Ant and I met in high school and our friendship took off from there. Having endured similar childhoods and gone through the ups and downs of life together, it is an honor to have him as my best man on the biggest day of my life. 

Anthonie Gonzalez

Jancel, the guy I can always count on to join me on my boring museum and history trips; the things that no one else likes to do. Jancel and I met in high school and immediately hit it off. Jancel is one of the kindest, caring, and most adventurous guys I know. All these years later, I am always thankful to have him as my friend.  

Jancel Cardenas

From our days at Umass Boston and Boston Children's Hospital, Steven has always been the guy I could count on to have a good time. When Steven and I first met at the new student transfer orientation, I knew right away this guy was going to be a blast to be around. Our late-night Allston house party adventures or laying low and ordering Papa Ginos are just some of the many highlights of our friendship. Years later, I consider it a blessing to have Steven as my close friend. 

Steven Garfield 

Not only is this man a groomsman, but we have the honor of having Henry be our wedding officiant as well. Since being a part of Ant's life, he is also now a part of our life. Henry is like family to us and we couldn't be happier to have him a part of our day in such a special way. 

Henry

Wedding Party

Q + A

Indoor swimming pool, free wifi, AC, and non-smoking rooms. A four-minute drive or less than a 30-minute walk (though on the highway) from Bradley Estate. Use code in the group code section under special rates.

Hilton Garden Inn Boston Canton

Travel

Featuring a taproom, patio, and restaurant.

Trillium - Canton

Go for a hike or simply take a nice stroll in the beautiful mountains of Blue Hills. You can even see Boston from the top!

Blue Hills Reservation

There will be a few room blocks for the night of our wedding but feel free to stay the weekend and enjoy the other amenities!

Melissa & Manny

Melissa & Manny

Travel

Hilton Garden Inn Boston Canton