It all started off my sophomore year of college. Tori was a freshman on the soccer team, and I wasn't very fond of her. Soon enough, we bonded over our love for "pocket snacks". Tori and I went on to become college besties and lived together post-college. Tori has been a part of my life through some of my highest and lowest points in life. She has been a rock to me ever since.

Keagan, my younger brother, embodies extraordinary qualities that I have had the privilege to watch my entire life. He's the type of person to give his shirt off his back and the money in his pocket to anyone in need. On top of being one of the funniest people I know, he is also exceedingly empathetic, patient, and above all, kind. I couldn't have asked for a better little brother, best friend, and co-best man.

My All-American bestie. Burk and I both got to Siena at the same time. We both played college soccer together. Both starters as freshman to All-Americans. We truly bonded over our chemistry on the field as a defender/forward duo and our laughter and partying off the field. There has never been a dull moment in our friendship.

Reese, my older brother, has been my right hand man. Any time I found myself struggling, succeeding, and anywhere in between, he was there for me. Reese is the funniest person I know and has managed to never stop making me laugh. He has been the greatest big brother to both Keags and I. Teaching us invaluable lessons throughout our lives. That includes what to do and... what not to do!

Rachel, not only my cousin, but my second mom. When my mom moved to Florida my sophomore year of college, Rachel took me in with open arms. Some of my best memories are with Rachel and our family during those summers I lived in Hamtramck. I learned so much about myself and many life lessons that will never be forgotten.

Josh, my oldest and dearest friend, is someone I hold in high regard and cherish like a brother. Our friendship traces back to our elementary school days, bonding over our shared love for sports. The foundation of our enduring friendship has been our mutual focus on family values. Josh is a remarkably genuine individual with a kind and compassionate heart, especially towards those he holds dear. I consider it an honor to have him as a member of my wedding party.

Beth, not only cousin, but a true friend. While growing up, we would spend summer's at her house. We would stay up late, recreate our own cooking shows, and hang out in grandma and dziadz’s basement laughing until we were yelled at. Beth has since moved to the UP, gotten married to the love of her life, and is now expecting a baby girl of her own. The success she has achieved in life is a testament to her own strength and unique character traits she has.

Tom, a close and enduring friend, is consistently the one to reach out and see how I'm doing. His competitive spirit, sense of humor, and unique quirks initially brought us together. However, it's his steadfast loyalty and commitment that have cemented our friendship into a brotherhood. Tom has a distinct knack for finding humor in any situation, a quality I deeply appreciate and admire.

From the pandemic to post-pandemic, living together was always a complete blast. We share so many memories that will last a lifetime. I have been honored to stand by Natalie's side while she married her best friend and I've gotten to watch Natalie grow into the successful businesswoman she is today.

Will, a close friend since 2015, began as a teammate and evolved into a brother as we graduated. He embodies both reliability and humor, always knowing the right course of action in various situations. One of his exceptional traits is the ability to navigate and solve even the most chaotic circumstances with a unique grace and composure. Will's friendship is something I honor deeply.

Syd and I truly bonded when we all moved into a house together right before the pandemic. We learned a lot about each other and shared a lot of similarities. Syd might be younger than me, but she is truly someone I look up to. No matter the situation, I always feel comfortable going to Syd for advice and her honest opinion.

Similar to Will, Stan became a brother to me during our college years, particularly through our five-year journey playing football together. Our bond deepened in a way that words can't capture fully. Stan has consistently been my go-to-person for advice, offering perspectives that bring clarity to any situation. He's extremely selfless and honorable which has made it easy to have him as one of my groomsmen.

Mel has been around since I was itty bitty and has since become my sister-in-law. I've watched her grow into an amazing wife, mother, and friend. She is truly someone I aspire to be. She has welcomed Griff into our family with her sense of humor and kindness.

Joe, Samantha's older brother, is slightly older than me, but that didn't hinder us from forging a friendship that I deeply value. He has a wonderful family with four incredible children, whom I've had the privilege to get to know and love. Joe embodies all the qualities of a "big brother," traits that I can relate to and appreciate. I'm grateful that Samantha had someone like him in her life while growing up.

Niki has always been someone I've looked up to. Growing up, I always wanted to be like Niki. Niki was always the cool cousin who would invite me over for sleepovers and would take me shopping. Her sense of humor, compassion for others, and fashionista style is always something I've admired about her.

Larry and I crossed paths as freshmen at SHU, with our dorms conveniently located next to each other, making friendship inevitable. Rapidly, Larry evolved into one of my most dependable friends, showcasing an exceptional loyalty to those in his circle. He's the kind of person you can always count on to pick up the phone and visit just because. In my life, there are only a handful of individuals I trust as deeply as I trust Larry.

Lydia is the definition of selfless. She is truly the mom of our friend group and would do anything for anyone. Lydia and I quickly became friends and bonded over our boyfriend's being football coaches for Siena Heights and share many memories from those times together. I am thankful that Lydia lives so close to us and know that if we ever needed anything, she would be there in an instant.

Malik and I were teammates in college, and our friendship began to flourish after our time on the field. While Malik may have a tough exterior, underneath it lies one of the most empathetic and thoughtful individuals I've had the privilege of knowing. His genuine care and understanding make him a truly special friend.

Andrea, my cousin has always been one of my biggest supporters. She is always the first person to post about an achievement that someone in the family has accomplished. In college, she was always checking in, making sure all the younger cousins had everything we needed to be successful. Her compassion for others is truly something that makes her who she is.

Jeff, my "brother from another mother," began as a close friend of Reese but has evolved into an older brother figure in my life. He is truly a part of our family, deeply ingrained for various reasons. For me, he embodies the qualities of a brother through his patience, love, and generosity. Jeff has been a steady and consistent presence throughout my life, offering friendship and mentorship that I value immensely.

Bella, my little sister is growing into a beautiful young woman. Often times, I catch myself watching her grow up from the "outside", since there is such a big age gap between us. There's not a day that goes by that I'm not proud of how smart and confident is she becoming in this world.

Jamie, Samantha's younger brother, has become like a brother to me as well. He possesses both a great sense of humor and amazing loyalty. Over the years of being with Sam, Jamie has grown to be one of my closest friends. Whether it's spending a weekend around a fire at Lighthouse Village or having late-night adventures at the PSL playing pool, Jamie and I have built a bond that I cherish and am incredibly grateful for.

Niz, the oldest of the Bartelotti Bunch is a true master of Fort Nite, Soccer, and making his Ciocia and Griff laugh.

Cece is the cutest, sassiest, and silliest niece. She is never afraid to steal the show by busting out a ballerina move or jumping into the splits to make everyone laugh.

Vinnie, the third youngest, walks around like the boss of group. He loves to smile, giggle, and nibble on your snacks.

Newly drafted to the crew, Lucio is handsome, precious, and full of smiles.