The Wedding Party
Meet our lovely family and friends who will be by our side on the big day.
Tessa Van Poele
For those who don’t know her well, Tessa grew up playing rep A fastpitch softball, which her mom spent countless hours supporting—driving her to practices, cheering from the stands, and making sure she could travel to tournaments. That experience fueled Tessa’s competitive spirit and love for teamwork. She has a deep connection to the ocean which is thanks to her Father, a sailor and liveaboard. Her entrepreneurial drive inspires everything she does. Tessa is the author of three children’s books, co-owns a business with one of her sisters, and thrives on creativity in all its forms. Passionate, driven, and full of heart, Tessa is ready to begin this new chapter with Anthony by her side, surrounded by love and adventure.
Mandy Cain
Maid of Honor Mandy is one of Tessa’s dearest and longest-standing friends—over 20 years of laughter, love, and memories together. They first met while working in retail and quickly became inseparable, bonding over inside jokes, mischievous adventures, and a shared love for good wine. From unforgettable Vegas trips to countless late nights at SJS dancing to 90’s R&B, Mandy has been there for every season of Tessa’s life. Through the highs and the lows, she has been a constant source of love, support, and sisterhood. Having her by Tessa’s side as Maid of Honor is more than fitting—it’s a celebration of a friendship that has truly become family.
Hayley Saheb
Bridesmaid Hayley is Tessa’s youngest sister, business partner, and fellow weirdo-in-crime. These two share a special kind of bond—equal parts creativity, chaos, and uncontrollable laughter. Once they get going, there’s no stopping them (seriously, don’t even try getting them laughing). From brainstorming ideas to inside jokes no one else understands, Hayley is not only part of Tessa’s inner circle, she’s a cornerstone of it. Having her by Tessa’s side means the day will be filled with love, laughter, and probably quite a few unforgettable snort-laughs too.
Cindy Dixon
Bridesmaid Tessa met Cindy through Mandy, and over the last 10–15 years, their friendship has blossomed into something truly special. What began as shared nights out and laughter has grown into a bond built on trust, love, and countless memories. Cindy is the kind of friend who shows up for both the fun and the chaos, always bringing her energy, loyalty, and heart wherever she goes. From endless laughs to late nights at SJS dancing to 90’s R&B, to the quieter moments of support and encouragement, Cindy has become not just a friend but family. Tessa couldn’t imagine this day without her by her side.
Danica Seline
Bridesmaid Just two years (and a few hours) apart, Danica is Tessa’s middle sister and lifelong built-in best friend. With four amazing kids and a spirit for adventure, Danica lives full-time on a sailboat with her husband Paul—truly embracing life on the open sea. Whether they’re sharing sister laughs, deep chats, or stories from shore to shore, Danica has always been a steady and supportive presence in Tessa’s life. Her adventurous heart and endless love make her the perfect person to stand by Tessa’s side on this special day.
Cristina Cuzzetto
Bridesmaid Cristina is Anthony’s younger sister, and now—Tessa’s soon-to-be sister, too! Kind-hearted, thoughtful, and endlessly sweet, Cristina has a way of making everyone around her feel loved and at ease. From the very beginning, she welcomed Tessa with open arms, instantly making her feel like part of the family. Tessa feels incredibly lucky to not only be marrying into such a wonderful family, but also to be gaining a sister. Having Cristina by her side on this special day is both an honor and a blessing, and it makes the celebration all the more meaningful.
Anthony Cuzzetto
The Groom For those who don’t know Anthony, he grew up playing hockey and soccer, making lifelong memories with his tight-knit circle of friends. He earned his Red Seal in Plumbing, a milestone he proudly dedicates to his late Zio Carlo Palermo. Anthony loves camping, fishing, and, just like Tessa, shares a deep love for the ocean. He’s also known for his slightly out-of-this-world obsession with ancient archaeology and astrology—so if you see him staring up at the night sky on the wedding night, don’t worry, he’s just keeping an eye out for unexpected guests from another galaxy. For Anthony, family means everything to him—especially being part of a big, loud, and loving Italian crew. Anthony couldn’t ask for a better partner in life than Tessa.
Raj Naidu
Best Man Raj and Anthony have been inseparable since Grade 3—what started as a childhood friendship quickly grew into a lifelong brotherhood. From schoolyard soccer to endless late nights at Raj’s house, he has been by Anthony’s side through it all. Their friendship has been filled with endless laughs, and Raj is always there to pick Anthony up with his humor, no matter the circumstance. These two are more than just best friends—they’re family. It’s no surprise that Raj is standing beside Anthony on one of the biggest days of his life.
Alfonso Palermo
Groomsman Alfonso (Fonz), is Anthony’s cousin and someone he’s always looked up to. Growing up together, Anthony admired Alfonso’s confident presence, and the way he carried himself, and over the years their bond has only grown stronger. More than just family, Alfonso has been a role model, a friend, and a steady presence in Anthony’s life. Having him as a groomsman is not only a way to honor that lifelong bond, but also a celebration of the family and friendship they’ve shared along the way.
Roberto Giardullo
Groomsman Roberto and Anthony have been very close since day one. As cousins who grew up together, they shared the same schools, the same friend groups, and countless childhood memories. Adding to their bond, Roberto’s parents are Anthony’s godparents—a connection that has always made their families even closer. From elementary to high school and all the life chapters in between, they’ve built a connection that goes beyond family—it’s a lifelong friendship. No matter where life leads, Roberto and Anthony will always have each other’s backs.
Michael Ciardullo
Groomsman Michael isn’t just one of Anthony’s closest cousins—he’s also one of Anthony's best friends. These two share a bond built on years of laughs, epic golf games, a deep love for Guinness, and an arguably unhealthy obsession with Back to the Future. Whether they’re quoting movie lines, debating just about everything in life (with neither ever willing to admit defeat), or trying to outdo each other on the course, their connection runs deep and genuine. Having Michael by Anthony’s side is a no-brainer, and the wedding just wouldn’t be the same without him.
Joseph Bevacqua
Groomsman Joe has been one of Anthony’s closest friends since elementary school, and their friendship has stood the test of time. From epic camping trips to late-night laughs and stories that have been retold a hundred times, these two have truly seen it all together. He was even there at the wedding in Cabo where Anthony and Tessa first met—proof that he’s been part of their story from day one. Joe has been a constant presence in Anthony’s life, and there’s no doubt their friendship will keep adding new chapters for years to come.
Paolo Preziosa
Groomsman Anthony has known Paolo since before elementary school—making him one of the longest-standing friendships in his life. Bonded by a shared sense of humor, endless inside jokes, and a mutual love of hockey stats, their conversations are equal parts comedy and nostalgia. Whether they’re debating Canucks trades, sending memes or sharing stories from high school days, Paolo always brings the laughs. A true friend through and through, Anthony couldn’t imagine this day without him.