The Groom
In Madeline’s Words
Before Patrick, I had never met a partner who encouraged me to be honest, and true to myself, even if that meant calling him out on his little charades. Patrick makes me laugh when I least expect it, makes fun of me for my awful reality tv shows, and always has his arms open to give me a hug when I need it. Whether we’re out on the town for a fancy dinner or sweating our way up a mountain, he is my best friend and I am so glad he is by my side. Here’s to a lifetime filled with fake nacho cheese, skittles swaps, airport anxiety, logging miles in our fitbits, speaking in accents, traveling around the world, and loving each other along the way.
The Groomsmen
The nice thing about being a groomsman at this wedding is that you don’t have to do much besides give a speech and embarass yourself.
Sean O’Brien (brother, co best man)
From 3 hour lunches at which we played trivia, getting him gifts I knew Gina would never let him get himself, having our name on the (now defunct) Barney’s wall of fame, to skipping out of work to go watch a day time baseball game, Sean and I have had some fun together. He now works for the enemy, but he’s still somehow a friend.
Thomas O’Brien (brother, co best man)
One time Tommy beat up an older kid who was picking on me during summer camp. He’s always got my back and I can always count on him. When I’m frustrated, annoyed, or otherwise needing to vent, he’s always there to listen and to give some solid advice. It’s also a nice perk to have an attorney in the family.
Sean O’Brien (dad)
Not many people are as lucky as Sean, Tommy, and I are in regards to the quality and character of the parents you get. We’ve always gotten the support and guidance we’ve needed to succeed, to become better people, and to make the best decisions according to our own interests and needs. On top of that we’ve all gotten a great friend out of it, even though he can’t seem to keep the entertainment center cables organized.
Paul Fox (brother-in-law)
Sometimes significant other’s older brothers are awful, sometimes they’re alright, but every once in a while they’re awesome. From the start Paul was welcoming and friendly, even when I told an inappropriate joke in front of him the 2nd or 3rd time meeting him. Pretty surprised he didn’t swing at me.