The Circle of Honor
We are so blessed to be surrounded by such immense love. Our Circle of Honor is our version of a wedding party. The cherished friends and family who stand beside us as Dukes, Duchesses, and Baronesses (what most weddings call bridesmaids and groomsmen). They are not just titles, but people who have walked with us, lifted us, and filled our lives with joy, mischief, wisdom, and heart.
On this page, you’ll find a glimpse into who they are, along with a playful conversation starter for each. Think of it as your key to skip the small talk, a way to dive straight into stories, laughter, and connection. So when you meet them, ask away… and let the conversations spark something memorable.
Princess Kiara
Our beloved red‑nose Pitty. Born May 10, 2024, and part of our family since August 25, 2024. Kiara brings joy, chaos, and unconditional love into our lives. She has traveled with us to multiple countries and states, been on more than 25 flights — more than most humans. She makes friends everywhere she goes. She is the embodiment of pure love and the spirit of our family.
Conversation starter: Ask Kiara about her ability to “sit,” “lie down,” “spin,” “shake,” “paw,” and “bow.”
Grand Duke: Chris Cueto
Meet Chris, the Cuban connection who earned his "Houdini" nickname for his legendary Irish exits, but when it matters most, he's always present with the wisdom and perspective that keeps everyone grounded. This sentimental soul once fought a bull in Spain (okay, he ran with them, but we're sticking with the fight story), and as a fellow Caribbean brother, he brings that island passion and loyalty that makes him the perfect Grand Duke.
Conversation starter: Ask Chris about anchovies in Greece.
Grand Duchess: Caroline Turner
Caroline is warmth, deep understanding, and a true kindred spirit. She and Melissa became fast friends after enrolling in a self‑defense class together — a commitment they often happily traded for wine nights! Caroline understands Melissa without the need for many words. When insecurities or self‑doubt arise, she has the natural ability to meet Melissa exactly where she is and help her steady her heart. Her sheer presence is a source of calm and joy, and her is friendship one of the most beautiful gifts to emerge in one of the most unlikely scenarios!
Conversation starter: Ask Caroline about that unlikely scenario!
Duke: Ari Samson
Ari speaks exclusively in movie quotes while admiring his watch collection and anything luxurious enough to match his refined taste. This fraternity brother built an impressive upper body to compensate for multiple knee surgeries, proving that sometimes life gives you thin legs but a strong will to hit the gym anyway.
Conversation starter: Ask Ari about being the Prince of Pastrami
Duchess: Bridget Fitzpatrick
Bridget is Melissa’s spirit sister, confidant, and partner in unforgettable adventures. They first met in a way that still makes them laugh. Bridget was Melissa’s self‑proclaimed “stalker,” drawn to Melissa’s professional work. Their bond has taken them across the country on wild journeys, including a 22‑day camping trip from Florida to Montana that ended with them stranded on a Wyoming mountain after a near‑death experience and needing to be rescued by a Deputy Sheriff. Bridget holds Melissa’s trust and friendship in a way that few ever could.
Conversation starter: Ask Bridget about the world famous brothel we once owned together.
Duke: Chris Rivera
Meet Squirrel, the tech-savvy driving expert who somehow manages to be the most extroverted introvert you'll ever encounter, with an appreciation for life's finer herbal experiences. This Tampa-based fraternity brother can troubleshoot your WiFi and navigate traffic with equal expertise, all while maintaining that perfect balance of social butterfly and homebody.
Conversation starter: Ask Chris about why we call him Squirel!
Duchess: Lilly Coley
Lilly came into Melissa’s life through a chance meeting in a café and quickly became a cherished friend. She is deeply thoughtful, always looking for ways to make others feel seen and cared for. She is the kind of person who will research every café in her neighborhood to find the perfect one for a friend’s morning cappuccino, and who will find a way to turn a “no” into a “yes” when making arrangements for the people she loves. After Melissa and Aaron’s time apart, Lilly’s beautiful intuition helped her welcome Aaron back with an open heart.
Conversation starter: Ask Lilly about the time she and Melissa found themselves on a spontaneous adventure in Italy!
Duke: Monte Harry
Monte can research any topic faster than you can Google it, dance like he's still tearing up college parties, and recommend the perfect Scotch for any occasion. This reliable Caribbean brother and comic book enthusiast always shows up when you need him most, armed with encyclopedic knowledge and smooth moves.
Conversation starter: Ask Monte about the time he was almost kidnapped in another country.
Duchess: Stefanie Hayes
Stefanie, one of Melissa’s “Joshua Girls.” This soul-sister has an extraordinary gift for guiding people through emotional journeys. When feelings surface, she has a way of creating space for healing that is both safe and transformative, a gift most therapists could only dream of. Her presence in Melissa’s life is both grounding and elevating.
Conversation starter: Ask Stefanie about bringing mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness practices directly into medical hospitals.
Duke: Paul Ringon
Paul is a creative Renaissance man who can design your logo, cook your dinner, and serenade you at karaoke—truly the Filipino Karaoke Queen we all need. After conquering brain surgery and cancer this past year with incredible resilience, he continues creating beautiful things, including his marriage to Wesley, whom everyone adores.
Conversation starter: Ask Paul for advice.
Duchess: Stephy Gonseneuaskas
Melissa’s little sister, her blood. Stephy’s strength, resilience, and purity of heart are qualities Melissa deeply admires. She is unwaveringly honest, a value they both hold dear, and she always chooses to lead from love, even in the face of hurt. When Melissa thinks about standing up to say her vows, she cannot imagine doing so without Stephy at her side.
Conversation starter: Ask Stephy about her new children’s book, “Sharkodile.”
Duke: Steve Vaughn
Steve is the towering protector who serves as everyone's unofficial bodyguard and master of the fine art of sarcasm. What started as colleagues at Nickelodeon blossomed into fraternity brotherhood and eventually true family—the kind that spans continents, whether he's stationed stateside or celebrating Oktoberfest in Germany. No matter where the military takes him, he'll always have your back; just whisper the magic words "soup & salad" and watch him appear.
Conversation starter: Ask Steve about Cowboys in Orlando.
Duchess: Stephanie Van Deynze‑Snell
Known affectionately as Dr. Steph, this soul-sister and Joshua Girl, approaches life’s challenges with love, grace, and maturity unlike many others. Her heart is pure, her wisdom deep, and her ability to navigate life’s complexities with kindness is a rare treasure. She is a grounding presence and a cherished part of Melissa’s world.
Conversation starter: Ask Dr. Steph about why heart-led leadership and learning to work with your biology is going to make the world a better place.
Duchess: Vilmaliz Bosque
Vilmaliz, or “V,” is a soul sister, fellow nomad, and another of the Joshua Girls! She knows Melissa deeply, embracing all her layers without judgment. She offers love, perspective, and grounding wherever in the world they may be, and her friendship is a constant reminder of what it means to be truly seen and loved for the depths of who you are.
Conversation starter: Ask V about Ceremonial Cacao and kitchen fails.
Baroness de Beauté: Brittany Hurban
Brittany has a gift for making people feel welcome and at ease. From their first meeting, she brought Melissa a sense of comfort and acceptance that is rare and valuable. She has remained a friend through all seasons and will be the artist entrusted to help Melissa feel her most beautiful during the wedding week — a role for which Melissa feels profoundly grateful.
Conversation starter: Ask Britt about what she offered Melissa the first time they met.
Baroness de Beauté: Nancy Jiminian
Nancy began as Melissa’s NYC hair stylist but quickly became a dear friend. She is one of the strongest women Melissa has ever met, choosing joy and peace, even when life gives her every reason not to. Her courage, artistry, and friendship are deeply valued, and her presence in the Circle of Honor is a gift.
Conversation starter: Ask Nancy about manifestation night, 2024!
Family
Father of the Bride:
Stevie G.
Accompanied by his wife, Maddie Gonseneuaskas,
and their son, Symen Gonseneuaskas
Conversation starter: Ask Stevie about hunting for colorful shrooms!
Mother of the Groom: Barbara LaMotta
Accompanied by her husband, Ron Crumity
Conversation starter: Ask Barb about the geodes.
Father of the Groom: Michael Smalls
Conversation starter:
Ask Michael about glider planes in Hawaii.
You have a role in our wedding too…
Every guest was invited because you matter immensely to us. The next page shares our vision for this week and how you are instrumental to its magic.