500 Pearl

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Our Wedding

It was Saturday, March 17, 2019—St. Patrick’s Day—when Jason and I matched on Bumble. I was in Washington, D.C., celebrating a friend’s birthday at District Winery. Now, if you ask his cousin Dan, he'll tell you&nbsp;never&nbsp;to date anyone outside a five-mile radius—and definitely not across the bridge. For those unfamiliar with D.C. geography, that’s code for: don’t date anyone from Virginia or Maryland. What Dan didn’t know was that I grew up in Arlington and was living in Alexandria at the time—about 12 miles outside Jason’s “dating boundary.” From the moment we matched, Jason and I started texting nonstop. The very next day, he asked if he could call me. I wasn’t used to anyone actually calling anymore, but he was persistent. When I answered, he asked what I was up to. I told him I was driving, and he quickly offered to call back so I wouldn’t be distracted. I laughed and let him know I had Bluetooth—his concern for my safety was sweet. We ended up talking effortlessly, and that first call turned into a full week of constant conversation. I was giddy—like a teenager with a crush. I felt an ease with him I’d never felt before. I invited him to meet me the following weekend during March Madness. I gave him fair warning: about 20 of my guy friends would be there. Without hesitation, he said, “I’ll meet you there.” The night we met, we chose Don Tito’s. I was nervous. Would he look like his photos? Was he everything he said he was? My heart raced when he texted that he’d arrived. I scanned the stairwell, butterflies in my stomach, and then—there he was. Even more handsome than his pictures. We locked eyes, and something clicked. It felt instant, electric, and inevitable. We ordered tacos and lost ourselves in conversation. The noise of the bar faded away as we talked, eyes locked, laughing, smiling. It felt like time had paused just for us. When it was time for him to leave, he walked me to the door and gave me the warmest hug—one that felt so familiar, like home. A true gentleman, not even a kiss on the first date. That night, he called to say he was getting off Bumble. “You’re the one,” he told me. And I felt the same. Exactly one year later, on the anniversary of that first match, we were taking a stroll in our neighborhood, when we both found four-leaf clovers. That day was also Jason’s father’s birthday, and given how close they are, it felt like more than coincidence. Some would call it fate. I call it the luck of the Irish—or in his case, Polish. Jason saved me that day. He’s not just the man of my dreams—he’s my lucky charm

The Luck of the Irish

Our Story

Photos

The bride has known Jessica for over 23 years. She is not only an incredible mother and wife, but also a deeply loyal and loving friend. Their bond began through their shared experiences growing up in the LDS church, and their friendship has only strengthened over the years. Despite juggling a full-time job and a busy family life, Jessica shines as the ultimate event planner. Her eye for detail and perfectionist nature make her truly exceptional. Everyone is excited to see her in action as she brings her talent and creativity to planning and coordinating the bridal events.

Jessica Carter

This little rascal was hopping around Radford back in her adolescent years. I sublet my college room to her one summer while I was home working. I remember wishing so badly that I could be there with her, enjoying those summer days together. We’ve been friends for 26 incredible years. She’s the smartest person I know. After a rocky start in school, she joined the Navy and became a Farsi linguist—we called her “Carrie” from Homeland. Then she went on to finish college, earn her master’s degree, and land the best job in the world. Today, she’s a boss in her own right, and I couldn’t be prouder of her success. (But fair warning—don’t challenge her to Jeopardy, because you will lose.) Life took her to England, where she found the love of her life, but distance has never broken our bond. She’s my ride-or-die chick, my sister from another mister, and always will be. Please ask her to say in Farsi, “Whatcha talking about, Willis?”

Amanda Joca Percival

Stacey is a true ray of sunshine. Affectionately known as “Momma Care Bear,” she’s the one who looks out for everyone and fiercely protects her friends. She and the bride have shared a close friendship for over 20 years. Known for her thoughtfulness and attentiveness, Stacey also brings laughter wherever she goes—her sense of humor, no doubt, inherited from her father. Her creativity is unmatched; if crafting were a profession, she’d be the President of Etsy. Sathia credits much of her strength and confidence to Stacey’s wise and compassionate relationship advice. Anyone would be lucky to call Stacey a friend, and those who do know just how special she truly is.  

Stacey Siefke

Dan's been my cousin for 43 years out of my 46 years of existence. We have literally been attached at the hip since the day we met. He's one hell of a father, husband, IUPAT Union member, and a model citizen. He's the Brett to my Brent. I have taken pride in being a crazy influence on his 3 sons and look forward to taking that as far as I can. 

Dan Penski

James Michael. What can I say. He's the man I've always strived to be. A true lover of all people and animals. So thankful to have gotten such an amazing person as my only brother. He's a terrific father, son, lover to Basia, and literally the best brother I could have ever asked for.

Jimmy Rutkowski

Jessica. The ambidextrous groomswoman. She is the most beautiful person on the inside and outside that I know. When we were kids I used to laugh with her that being ambidextrous was amazing for her athletically. Little did I know, that it would ultimately define her as the best sister and mother. Like Dan, I also look forward to showing my niece Adrianna how to be the biggest Hellraiser going.

Jessica Rutkowski

My mom calls my brother the “son of God.” Normally, I’d roll my eyes at such a title, but in his case… she’s right. Born on a holy day, his name in Khmer means “Sunday.” Now, imagine being the only boy in a family of four sisters. He had no choice but to learn how to fend for himself—and somehow, he survived. Ryan is a saintly son, a loving husband, a role-model father, a patient brother, and a devout Christian. When Jason asked my dad for my hand in marriage, Ryan was the one who helped coordinate the surprise. I’ll always be grateful that he was part of that special moment. So, when it came time to decide who would officiate our wedding, Ryan was the very first person on our list. He knows both of us so well, and I honestly wouldn’t want anyone else to marry us. It’s not just that we would be honored—it’s that it feels meant to be.

Ryan Mao

One of first memories of mom was on the first day of school. She held my hand and walked me to the school bus. Back in the days, we had to walk about a mile to the bus stop. She was always concerned about my safety. 
Forty years later, her hand, now softened with age, will hold mine again as I walk down the aisle. It's not just a handoff, it's a symbol of her unwavering presence, a right of passage marking the start of a new chapter. Through scraped knees and broken hearts, college rejections and career triumphs, she's been my constant north star, my rock. Being the baby of the family came with its perks; I was always her favorite. Her love and support were the gentle wind beneath my wings. 
I'm bursting with happiness to finally tie the knot with Jason, a man Mom adores almost as much as she adores me. It's become a running joke - she calls him just to chat, often asking to speak to him before even saying hello to me. Knowing my parents won't have to worry about me anymore, knowing they approve of the life I've chosen, is a gift beyond measure. Her smile on my wedding day will be the most radiant of all.
As I walk down that aisle, I'll be thinking of all the times she held my hand, all the times she picked me up when I fell. And as I step into this new chapter, I know her love will continue to guide me, even when she's not physically by my side. That thought makes my heart swell with love, and just a touch of sadness that this one chapter in our lives is coming to an end. But I know that our love story continues, and that it will be written by many more moments shared with mom.

Chan Mao

My precious daddy is the most loving and amazing father. Growing up, he instilled in me the value of hard work, not just through his words but through the way he lived his life. Every dollar he earned was through sheer effort, and he used it to provide for our family, no matter how little we had. Even when times were hard, he never held back his love. I am the baby of the family—and I’ll admit, I used that to my advantage. I think he caught on, but he still laughs about it to this day. One day, as a curious little girl, I went through his wallet and found a small, worn photo of me tucked inside. That’s when I knew—I was the twinkle in his eyes. (Shhh… don’t tell my sister Sophorn that I’m his favorite.) Sometimes I wonder if he still carries that photo with him. No matter how many years have passed, I’ll always be his little girl.

Nou Mao

My father has been my closest person and has been my rock since day 1. First day of having full custody of me when i was 2 years old, he went to Child World and bought me a swing set, picked up a pizza for us on the way home, and then we fell asleep on the couch... thats when i pee'd my pants and unfortunately all over him. He didnt lose his cool and just took care of me like he has everyday since. Nearly losing him to cancer in 2024, having him here to celebrate this day means more to our family than words can say. We’re grateful for his strength, his humor, and for always putting us kids first. Phenomenal human and even better father.❤️

James Rutkowski

My grandmother has been there and helped raise me since before I was even out of the womb. The Dr. was late, and as he got off the elevator she grabbed and told him... GET IN THERE and DELIVER MY GRANDSON. That was the 2nd coolest thing she has ever done for me, and only 2nd to the thousands of pieces of French toast and grilled cheese sandwiches. This is Sathia first and only living grandparent, and I have to give Sathia all the credit... The wedding is in Buffalo because Sathia wanted it that way with only having my grandmother in mind. My grandmother is literally the glue that keeps our family whole. We are so lucky she is here to celebrate with us!❤️

June Rutkowski

Wedding Party

Wednesday, May 27Bride and Groom arrive &amp; check-in @ Aloft - 4PM Thursday, May 28Wing Night @ Bar Bill (Clarence Location), 2nd Floor Reserved (All) - 6PM Friday, May 29Rehearsal (Wedding Party) - 5-5:45PMRehearsal Dinner (Wedding Party) - 6:00-8PMWelcome Party @ Aloft Rooftop (All) - 8-11PM Saturday, May 30The Big Wedding Day (All) - 4:30PM-11:00PM Sunday, May 31Guest departures - 12PM Check-out Monday, June 1 - June 7Bride and Groom depart for Niagara-on-the-Lakeand Toronto, Canada

Week of Events

Formal Attire Ladies: Evening gowns or cocktail dresses. Please avoid black or white dresses. Men: Suit and Tie Wedding Party ColorsBridesmaid: English RoseGroomsmen: Royal Navy Blue

Dress Code

VenueForbes Theater @ 500 PearlKimberly AllingerEvent Coordinator HotelAloft Buffalo Downtown by Marriott PhotographerThe Fern Wedding Package (8 hours)Rebecca O'Hara, Rebecca O'Hara Photography Makeupby Layla M HairSalon A Go GoAngel Burke EntertainmentH&amp;H (8 hours)DJ Emily FloristArjuna Florist &amp; DesignAly HolcombWedding Designer CakeRochester NY Wedding CakesMichael &amp; Erin Walsh

Vendors

Hotel rooms have been reserved with a special group rate at the Aloft Buffalo downtown by Marriott for $279.00 per night. Aloft Buffalo Downtown500 Pearl StreetBuffalo, NY 14202<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=aloft+buffalo+downtown&amp;sei=ohFtaMawBuXY5OUPmYPAoAQ#" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">(716) 849-7280</a> Reservation link:<a href="https://usg01.safelinks.protection.office365.us/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.marriott.com%2Freslink%3Fid%3D1772737945050%26key%3DGRP%26app%3Dresvlink&amp;data=05%7C02%7Csathia.k.mao.civ%40us.navy.mil%7C679d6a275e7542231c4f08de7ef3077e%7Ce3333e00c8774b87b6ad45e942de1750%7C0%7C0%7C639087779433018282%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=KKZcd1A%2B%2BgQyew%2BC4o4uXjvit%2FG9JP%2F63%2FcLNyVFGwA%3D&amp;reserved=0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Book your group rate for Mao &amp; Rutkowski Wedding Room Block</a> Event Summary: Mao &amp; Rutkowski Wedding Room Block Start Date: Friday, May 29, 2026End Date: Sunday, May 31, 2026 Note: If you choose not to stay for this length of time, please call the hotel and mention the Mao-Rutkowski Wedding for the same rates. Please make reservations by Friday, April 24, 2026. HOTEL INFORMATIONCheck-in: 3:00 pmCheck-out: 12:00 pm Pet PolicyPets Welcome2 pets 40lbs maximum per roomMaximum Pet Weight: 40.0lbsMaximum Number of Pets in Room: 2 ParkingManaged by Premier Parking. Pay to park.Electric Car Charging Station

Accommodations

Q + A

Transportation Types Air: Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) is in Cheektowaga, New York. The fastest nonstop flight from Buffalo to Washington, D.C. takes 1 hr 10 min. Roundtrip non-stop flights start at $177. Car/Scenic Route: From DC to Buffalo is a 7-hour drive. Train: Amtrak from Union Market to Buffalo, New YorkDepew Station, 55 Dick Road, Depew, NY 1404312 hours 34 minutes. TOO LONG. Do not recommend.

Travel

Buffalo, NY, offers a variety of attractions and activities. Visitors can explore the vast Niagara Falls, the revitalized Canalside waterfront district, enjoy the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, or delve into history at The Buffalo History Museum. Other popular attractions include the <a href="https:" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Buffalo Zoo</a>, the <a href="https:" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Buffalo Museum of Science</a>, and <a href="https:" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shea's Performing Arts Center</a>. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit <a href="https:" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Delaware Park</a> or <a href="https:" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eternal Flame Falls</a>, while art lovers can check out the <a href="https:" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alleyway Theatre</a> and the <a href="https:" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Buffalo AKG Art Museum</a>. Here's a more detailed look at some of the highlights/attractions: Niagara Falls: Is a group of three waterfalls at the southern end of Niagara Gorge, spanning the border between the province of Ontario in Canada and the state of New York in the United States. The largest of the three is Horseshoe Falls, which straddles the international border of the two countries. It is also known as the Canadian Falls. The smaller American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls lie within the United States. Bridal Veil Falls is separated from Horseshoe Falls by Goat Island and from American Falls by Luna Island, with both islands situated in New York.Canalside: This waterfront area offers year-round activities like dining, concerts, boat tours, and ice skating in the winter. Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens: Explore diverse plant life in this historic garden, including tropical, subtropical, and cacti collections. Buffalo Zoo: Home to a variety of animals, it's a great option for a family day out. Buffalo Museum of Science: Discover exhibits on science and nature, suitable for all ages. The Buffalo History Museum: Learn about the history of Buffalo and the surrounding region. Shea's Performing Arts Center: Catch a Broadway show or other live performance. Buffalo City Hall: Take a tour and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. Delaware Park: A large urban park with walking trails, a golf course, and a Japanese garden. Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum: Explore the history of the Pierce-Arrow automobile. Eternal Flame Falls: A unique natural waterfall with a small, perpetually burning flame. Food Scene: Buffalo is known for its unique culinary experiences, including Buffalo wings, beef on weck, and sponge candy. Best wings hands down are at Bar Bill. Hand painted wings and crispy.Craft Breweries: Explore local breweries like <a href="https:" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Big Ditch Brewing</a>, <a href="https:" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">42 North Brewing</a>, and <a href="https:" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Community Beer Works</a>, <a href="https:" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">according to Uncovering New York</a>. Art Scene: The city has a vibrant art scene, with galleries, theaters, and street art. Sports: Buffalo Bills (NFL) or Buffalo Sabres (NHL) game. Canada side: Toronto is not too far away. Bring your passport.

Sathia & Jason

Sathia & Jason

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