Meet Ryan

We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about our wedding party on our blog. Before we get into our final entry, we just wanted to say that we wish we could’ve profiled all of our fantastic friends and family … but there probably isn’t enough time in the year to recall all of the great memories we have with you all. Here’s to making another big one on June 26th.

And now, a man that needs no introduction … especially if you’re in South Jersey (this guy has his own student-run Facebook fan page dedicated to him). Ladies and gentleman, he’s big and loud on the outside but a sweet little puppy dog on the inside – meet Brady’s brother and best man, Mr. Ryan Smith.

About Ryan

* Brady and Ryan go way back … 26 years to be exact. About three months after Brady’s third birthday, he welcomed home his first sibling and they’ve been arguing with each other ever since. Nooo - just kidding of course. While the two have had their fair share of infamous verbal disagreements – it’s all in good fun. Let’s just say Ryan is the more aggressive and intense of the two brothers, but when you really get down to it – there are much more similarities then differences.

* Brady and his family are probably the only people on Earth that call him “Ryan.” To all others, he is affectionately known as “Smitty,” a common nickname given to those with the surname Smith – but one that he has certainly made his own. Brady’s theory is that “Smitty” never caught on to him as a nickname because his first name is just so damn cool.

* Mr. Smitty was an All-South Jersey offensive center and defensive end in high school for the EHT Silver Eagles football team, which he now is an assistant coach for. Ryan was a superior athlete in just about every sport he played, including baseball, hockey, and weight lifting. Brady always schooled him in pick-up basketball, though. You might also be surprised to know that big Ryan was actually a running back in his earlier youth football years – needless to say, he grew out of that phase.

* Brady was thrilled when Ryan announced he’d be attending West Virginia University with him, giving Brady another shot at teaching him the ropes (Brady was also a senior when Ryan was a freshman in high school). Ryan spent two years at WVU, and while he ended up transferring to Rowan University for its physical education major, Brady is proud to note that Ryan earned a 3.2 GPA his last semester as a Mountaineer, going out on top. In fact, Ryan made the Dean’s List while at Rowan, something his wiser older brother never accomplished before.

* For those who don’t know Ryan well yet, he’s a Nike fanatic – and that’s putting it modestly. He’s probably paid for one of Phil Knight’s mansions all by himself. And of course, another of Smitty’s famous quirks is his disdain for long pants. He wears shorts every single day, no matter what season it is, and often moans and whines like a little girl when he has to act like a normal person and wear pants to a wedding or even jeans to a nice club.


Q&A with Ryan

Who would play the lead role in a movie about your life?
The black girls in school say I look a lot like rapper Bubba Sparxxx but I think the nod would have to go to actor Kevin James. I think we have a lot of similarities in our XXL athletic build, tremendous sense of humor, and love for Nike and beautiful women.

Favorite memory with Brady
Aside from all the big parties and concerts in high school as well as the shit show we call WVU, I'd have to say being on the field pregame at the Dolphins-Broncos game in Denver and the whole weekend in Denver, CO.

Favorite thing about Brandi
Her and her family’s love for partying.

What’s your favorite adult beverage?
OK let’s go in reverse chronological order:

Now = Citrus Vodka with a splash of water and of course Pat-Ron
Post college = Bud Light
College = Anything
High School = Keg

What was your first job?
Fellow groomsman Ramy tricked me into working at this beat ass restaurant because there were a few good looking broads that worked there. It ended up that my job was washing dishes in a 4x4 ft room in the middle of the summer. Let’s just say I didn't make it past two days of employment there. First real job was the BOX!!!! (Chatterbox Restaurant in Ocean City)

When you were 10 years old, what did you want to be when you grow up?
Bartender/Professional Football Player

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I have over 20 pairs of Nike’s and I color code my closet and drawers.

What are you most excited about Brandi & Brady’s wedding?
Refer to groomsman Jason Sacks' question below … and seeing my brother on hopefully one of the happiest days of his life not worry about anything and have fun with the people that he cares about.

Which one of your fellow groomsman has the best chance of falling off the riverboat at Brady/Brandi’s wedding?
Hands down Ryaaann Daaaaviiidd Plllaaat.

Editor’s Note: Ryan submitted a nice little story about Mr. Platt, who, by the way, has officially now taken the “Most Likely To Fall Off The Boat Award.” The story is about a time when Mr. P actually did fall off a boat and Ryan came to his rescue. The details are slightly too risqué for this blog though, so if you want to hear the whole story, ask him at the wedding.

What song(s) do you hope to hear at Brandi & Brady’s wedding?
"Live Your Life” by T.I. ft. Rhianna and............. JUICY!!

You get to make a speech at Brandi & Brady’s wedding … can you give us a sneak peak of what you’ll be telling the invitees?
First of all let’s just say that I hope I don't offend anyone because I am not going to sensor any of it. My speech is going to have a lot of humor to it about my life as I know it with Brady Michael Smith with a touch of some real brotherly love.

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from your older brother?
There's too much to include in this Q&A, but if I had to pick something it would be that he taught me it’s OK to be a kind person with a good heart.

What’s your favorite subject in health/P.E. to teach the kids?
Health = Sex Ed … kidding that’s just OK to teach. Drivers Education is my favorite. Volleyball is my favorite to teach in P.E.

If you had to call one offensive football play with the game on the line, what would it be?
First of all there is not nearly enough information in this question that I need to make a good call. I need to know how much we are down by, where are we located on the field, how much time is left, weather conditions, if our kicker is a bitch, time of day, and who we are playing. Without all of that information above, I would go with a sprint out pass to get the Q outside the pocket with a good set of routes and a chance to take it on his own for the game. Let’s call it Trio Rt. 411 Flood Switch w/ a BS Post.

Meet Platt

With almost a month to go until show time, we’re down to our last two groomsmen – Brady’s best men. As fate would have it, the two gentlemen are both gym, errr … physical education teachers at Egg Harbor Township High School and coach football together. Today’s post focuses on the man with the most contagious laugh in the room, who’s been Brady’s best friend for over 14 years. Ladies love him, men want to be him, high school kids get into stretching lines for him. Say hello to Ryan David Platt.

About Platt

* Whew, where to begin? From junior football to high school football, from endless concerts, beach trips and “social gatherings,” to four years spent dominating at West By God Virginia University … Mr. P and Brady have really been through it all together. Platt’s always been like another member of the family at the Smith house – he literally has his own stocking at Christmas time.

* If you’re not from EHT and see Platt at the wedding, you might be a bit surprised to know that he was an all-Cape Atlantic League defensive lineman in high school. Sometimes giving up over 100 pounds to his opponent, it was truly a sight to watch Platt wiggle his way through the offensive line to make tackle after tackle for the Silver Eagles.

* Aside from his love for the gridiron, Platt is an extremely passionate person who enjoys many of life’s finer offerings … including good music, surfing, snowboarding, chicken fingers, blue cheese and ketchup. Platt’s so passionate about the last two things that they often end up as a decoration on his face.

Q&A with Platt

Who would play the lead role in a movie about your life?
It would have to be somebody awesome...I'm going to go with Sylvester Stallone...he crushed Rocky.

Favorite memory with Brady
Very tough call...would have to go with watching Brady perform his best intoxicated "Apollo Creed" replication in my driveway during his sophomore year of high school.

Favorite thing about Brandi
Fun going personality and perfect complement to Brady

What’s your favorite adult beverage?
Ciclon and Vodka...she moves her body like a Ciclon

What was your first job?
Platt's Homefurnishings Outlet...your furniture store at the Jersey Shore

When you were 10 years old, what did you want to be when you grow up?
Professional football player for the New York Football Giants

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Well, if they weren't from South Jersey I would have to say that I played noseguard (defensive lineman) at 140 lbs in high school football.

What's your favorite football memory with Brady?
Lining up on the defensive line with Brady on Thanksgiving Day against Mainland his senior year. By the way...we kicked some ‘Stang ass that day.

What are you most excited about Brandi & Brady’s wedding?
Cutting the most ridiculous rug Pittsburgh has ever seen.

Which one of your fellow groomsman has the best chance of falling off the riverboat at Brady/Brandi’s wedding?
I would have to say it’s a two man race... but I'm going to go with Mr. Ryan...Smith. I'm probably in the running as well...

What song(s) do you hope to hear at Brandi & Brady’s wedding?
SHOUT!!! Are there any other important songs at a wedding???

What is Brady’s best snowboarding move when he’s shredding up the slopes?
"Smith-In-Flip". Some of tried, but only one has mastered...

What’s your favorite subject in health/P.E. to teach the kids?
Health: Everything...it’s an awesome time for life lessons in A201 with Mr. P
Physical Education: Kickball...I had a no hitter in 4th period last week.

What’s your favorite go-to defense to run on the football field?
Odd 2 baby...Cover 2 it up!

You get to make a speech at Brandi & Brady’s wedding … can you give us a sneak peak of what you’ll be telling the invitees?
Ahh...I really want to keep this in the bag. I'm going to provide some insight into the history of Brady Michael Smith and Brandi Jo Bonkowski.

Meet Melissa

Brady and I, being die hard West Virginia fans, hate everything about the University of Pittsburgh. Well just about everything. There is one thing (or person) that we do love and that is Mrs. Melissa (Koger) Kluchurosky - aka Melly or Meltini – our fifth & final bridesmaid!

• A human resources guru, Melissa is a graduate of Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, but now works at Pitt. While Melissa and I love all Pittsburgh professional sports, we spark a bit of a rivalry when it comes to college athletics.

• Melissa and I became great friends during middle school and became practically joined at the hip throughout high school. We participated in almost all the same activities – from student council officers to band, Melissa and I were always together. We were even band camp roommates twice and always sat together on bus trips (including two 24-hour trips to Disney - hence the happy face to the right)

• Throughout high school, I spent my spare time stalking Melissa’s younger brother, Bobby. I’d repeatedly ask him to become my boyfriend, but I was turned down on a daily basis. It wasn’t love – I just enjoyed embarrassing him in front of his underclassman friends!

• Never one to turn down a cold Miller Lite or a good appetizer, my parents LOVE it when Melissa comes over because she loves their cooking. My mom even makes special things just because “Melissa likes it” and my dad used to pack special lunches for her in high school!

• Melissa is married to one of the sweetest, nicest guys around – Mr. Brian Kluchurosky. I was fortunate enough to be a part of their bridal party and even read a little Colossians at the ceremony!

• Looking through old photos, I found this awesome picture (to the right) of Melly and I from our 8th Grade Dinner Dance - on the Gateway Clipper! The boat where Brady and I will marry in June!

Q & A with Melissa

• How did you meet Brandi/Brady? Brandi, in middle school. First memories with Brandi are from the 6th grade trip to Busch Gardens VA. (Editor's Note: Melissa met Brady at a Pitt/Virginia Tech tailgate - the same day he met my parents!)

• If you could have one super power, what would it be and why? Predict the lottery numbers so I could win the PA Powerball and retire from work at age 28!

• What’s your favorite beverage? Venti Unsweetened Shaken Green Tea/ Lemonade from Starbucks!

• Name your favorite restaurant. Overall best experience at a restaurant was at Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill @ Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

• If you could only shop in one store for the rest of your life, what would it be? TARGET or COSTCO…can’t decide but probably Costco because you can buy food, appliances, electronics, patio furniture, flowers, personal care products or a car in one shopping trip!

• What song do you look forward to hearing at Brandi & Brady’s Wedding? Chicken Dance…Just kidding Brandl…I think I was on Team Brandi for “no” Chicken Dance at the wedding!

• If you could be on one reality show, what would it be and why? Cake Boss…Love those crazy Italians and would love to decorate one of those amazing cakes!

• Who do you think will fall off the boat? DANA!!!!!!!!!!

• What was the first concert you attended? Janet Jackson or Boyz II Men…Can’t remember which was first!

• If you were in the movie “Back to the Future,” what year would you visit? Early 1900’s so I could experience my grandparents coming from Italy to US and seeing what they were like growing up!

• How many pairs of shoes do you own? Too many to count…all included with sandals, boots, sneakers, heels, flats, probably over 50.

• Name three things you always have in your refrigerator. Milk, Apples, Bottled Water…pretty boring fridge!

Meet Sacks

We’re entering the home stretch, as far as Wedding Party Q&A’s go, and our next strapping young male is a popular one. He’s #22 in your program, #1 in your hearts … the pride of EHT, Syracuse, and Wrigleyville … meet Mr. Jason Sacks.

About Jason Sacks

* Sacks and Brady have been close friends for a long, long time. From Mrs. Mattern’s third grade class, through high school, college, and beyond – these two have experienced quite a bit together. Two years ago, Brady got the incredible news that Sacks would be joining him in Chicago – an event that has clearly changed the Windy City forever. Sacks is now more of a Chi-town regular than deep dish pizza, and has enjoyed dominating the social and intramural circuit with Brady and Co.

* Sacks has always been a relentless competitor and natural born leader – in athletics and the classroom. The dude even has his own honor society at EHTHS named after him (not joking) – which was established to recognize students with high achievement in journalism. Rumor has it that the society was supposed to be named after Brady, but he insisted Sacks receive the namesake honor because of his editorial work on the award-winning Class of 1999 Yearbook.

* A standout basketball, cross country, tennis, badminton and Marco Polo star in high school, Sacks parlayed that love of sports to college with his radio/broadcast journalism work at Syracuse University. He covered football, hoops, lacrosse and several other sports before coaching and studying NYU and then interning with the dreadful New York Knickerbockers (which, as a diehard Sixers fan, must have been a bittersweet experience for him).

* He is now a top executive for Positive Coaching Alliance, an awesome non-profit organization that conducts educational workshops for youth sports coaches, parents, organizational leaders and athletes across the nation. Brady has definitely caught the PCA fever from Sacks, and constantly references the organization’s catchy terminology, like “Double-Goal Coaches,” and “We fill emotional tanks.”


Q&A with Sacks

Who would play the lead role in a movie about your life?
If the movie focused mainly on my illustrious sports career, we'd need someone athletic, so I'd say Dodger first baseman, James Loney (I hope he can act) … but if we were to focus on how much I travel and how much I am Up in the Air - let's go George Clooney.

Favorite memory with Brady
Three-way tie between: striking him out in Little League in 5th grade, competing together in Mr. EHT, and representing NJ out in Chicago together for the past two years.

Major Editor’s Note: There is no known witness, documentation or feasible memory that proves Sacks actually struck out Brady in 5th grade. The editor feels this is a false claim and will await research of historical EHTYO scorecards by the FBI before reversing his stance.

Favorite thing about Brandi
Go Big or Go Home - Brandi always knows how to have a good time. Whether it is contributing with food and drinks at a small get together, making gold-chain NJ necklaces for Brady and me at the Jersey Shore party, or wanting to make a sign for the Stevie Wonder concert, she always is looking to have a good time.

What’s your favorite adult beverage?
Goose on the rocks, extra olives...and obviously Pat

What is your favorite intramural sport to play in Chicago?
Hands down the easiest question on the survey. Proud member of the greatest dodgeball team ever established - The Money$hotz.

What was your first job?
First paying job was a dishwasher at the Island Grill in Ocean City for one summer. I then got called up to the Big Leagues and enjoyed an eight-summer stint at Steve and Cookies By the Bay.

When you were 10 years old, what did you want to be when you grow up?
Sports Announcer...I basically wanted to be the next Bob Costas or Jim Nantz.

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I made it to the quarterfinals of the TV show, “So You Think You Can Dance” ... and also had a short stint on tour with The Jabawockeez.

What are you most excited about Brandi & Brady’s wedding?
The fact that half of EHT will be making the trip to Pittsburgh to join forces with Brandi's friends and family, which will end up being one of the biggest parties the Steel City has ever seen (Super Bowl parades will look like middle school silent lunches compared to the wedding weekend).

Which one of your fellow groomsman has the best chance of falling off the riverboat at Brady/Brandi’s wedding?
I think everyone stays dry....but if Platt drinks any Ciclon within 24 hours of the wedding, all bets are off.

What song(s) do you hope to hear at Brandi & Brady’s wedding?
Any song with "Baby" in it, so we can turn it into a Brady song … and “How Low” by Ludacris.

Who will win the NFC East in 2010?
The New York Football Giants......and finishing second and getting the wild card will be the Syracuse-alum, Donovan McNabb-led Washington Redskins. In the basement will be the Philadelphia Eagles and their ungrateful fans, who will finish 4-12.

Who should the Sixers name as their next head coach?
Well I don't think I am ready to move back East yet, so I'm out of the picture. Heard rumors of Thunder Dan Majerle. Just give me someone who is not a recycled NBA coach...oh, and I'll take John Wall too.

Meet Amy

In life, it’s funny how you remember first meeting some of your friends.

I remember how I met Amy Merks. My dad and her mom were friends from high school and worked together for a number of years. Our parents told us that we should hang out, so it was about second grade when we started chatting with each other in Catholic Sunday School. From this moment, we became great friends.

Some things you should know about Amy:

· At the ripe age of about 9, I was a bridesmaid in Amy’s “first” wedding. You see, we were practicing the holy rights of passage and Amy was marrying her 4th grade boyfriend, so Bubba and I served as the wedding party. The next week we jumped in as the god parents to a lovely Cabbage Patch Kid. So, now, 20 years later, it’s only fitting that Amy returns the deed as a member of my bridal party!

· Amy and I enjoy doing "old lady" things together. We tend to write things in poem, we both played slow pitch softball and we excel at bowling. During high school and middle school, we LOVED to play Bingo. And, this one time, at Band Camp (Amy twirled flags), we won a Twist contest.

· One fateful night in high school, I formally introduced Amy to her current husband, Jon (FYI – that makes 4 marriages that I’ve arranged!). While they parted ways for a bit, they rekindled their romance at a party at my house during college...and the rest is history!

· A proud graduate of Penn State, Amy works in the advertising (media buying) industry in New York. Amy and Jon currently live in Hoboken, NJ and both work in the city. Amy is one very awesome tour guide and gives fantastic recommendations for things to do and eat in the city.

Let's get to know Amy a little better...

How did you meet Brandi/Brady?
Brandi and I first met in CCD (Sunday School), but became true friends when our elementary schools merged into the same middle school in 6th grade. I first met Brady at the Tonidale in Pittsburgh and he quickly labeled me “his favorite of all Brandi’s friends” ;)

Editors Note: Amy and I having all the same classes together brought together two gifted minds that created projects such as “The King of the Wind” rap to the “Fresh Prince of Bel Air” theme song.

If you were in a beauty pageant, what category would you excel in and why?
Talent – I twirl a mean flag.

What’s your favorite beverage?
Starbucks Skinny Vanilla Latte

Name your favorite restaurant.
Charrito’s in Hoboken, NJ

If there was a movie made about your life, which actress would play the lead role?
Tea Leoni – A tourist in Times Square thought I was her once!

Editors Note: Amy recently found a conversation of former high school colleagues discussing how she looks like Kim Raver on Facebook!

What song do you look forward to hearing at Brandi & Brady’s Wedding?
Rihanna - Umbrella – after all my signature Umbrella routine was established in a Chicago bar while visiting Brandi and Brady! (see an action shot of this dance to the right)

If you could be on one reality show, what would it be and why?
MTV Real World/Road Rules Challenge! I am obsessed and like to discuss my personal strategies of how I would handle every challenge in annoying detail.

Who do you think will fall off the boat?
Possibly Steve

What was the first concert you attended?
“No Doubt” at Star Lake

Name three things you always have in your refrigerator.
Vitamin water, Diet Coke and hummus

If you were going to try out for American Idol, what song would you sing?
It doesn’t matter, I wouldn’t get past the first note before Simon gave me the ax – I’m that bad.

Get to Know Norbert

Sorry for the brief hiatus blog readers – Brandi and Brady have been busy with work, wedding planning, and watching the Mountaineers’ incredible Final Four run.

We’re back, and today’s post features a man who, like Brandi, will be joining the Smith family in the next 3 months. On May 30, 2010, this good looking fellow will be marrying Brady’s sister Amanda, thus forming an Irish-Cuban alliance that surely cannot be stopped.

Let’s all give a big round of applause for Miami’s finest … Mr. Norbert Ferro.


Fun Facts About Norbert

* A die-hard Miami Hurricanes and Miami Dolphins football fan, Norbert was a gridiron star himself at G. Holmes Braddock Senior High School before making the bold (some Floridians would say “insane”) move up north to play college football in frigid Minnesota. Mr. Ferro played quarterback and defensive back in high school against several future NFL stars in talent-rich South Florida – you can read more about that below.

* Norbert is an experienced DJ who spins records and emcees at various events in South Florida, from weddings to birthday parties to Bat Mitzvahs. We would’ve enlisted his services at our wedding but we need this guy on the dance floor – he’s got phenomenal moves just like his future brother-in-law does.

* Norbert is a professional restaurant inspector, making sure your food is prepared safely and in sanitary conditions at eateries in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and more. Perhaps the best perk of the job is the constant flow of free gift certificates and meals that restaurant owners give Norbert – you don’t want to tick off the guy who can shut you down!

Q&A with Norbert

Who would play the lead role in a movie about your life?
Al Pacino because he is really Cuban (right? Scarface?)

Favorite memory with Brady (so far)
Being Brady's pro trophy fish sponsor on Miami Beach. I made the catch, he got the glory and the picture.

Favorite thing about Brandi
She is full of facts. I think I would use her as a life line if I was ever on Who Wants to be a Millionaire.

What are you most famous for?
Most interceptions in one season. Miami 6A football, I threw 12 my sophomore year and picked 7 my senior year. Check the books.

What’s your favorite adult beverage?
Skip and Go Naked's!!! They're great.

What was your first job?
I worked at Lane Bryant - I was a stock boy, made my way up to cashier in one week. Don't ask how! I’ll never tell.

How cool of a future brother-in-law is Brady, on a scale of 1-10?
I give him a tennn!! A ten!! A f***** ten!

When you were 10 years old, what did you want to be when you grow up?
A flyer (AKA fighter pilot)............. thanks to TOP GUN.

Who is the best player in the history of Miami Hurricane football, in your opinion?
Hands down Sean Taylor – he was one of the greatest safeties of all time.

Who is the best player you’ve ever played against while dominating on the football field in high school?
I would have to say Andre Johnson or Frank Gore.

What are you most excited about Brandi & Brady’s wedding?
The boat ride!!!

Which one of your fellow groomsman has the best chance of falling off the riverboat at Brady/Brandi’s wedding?
Mr. Ryan Platt’s going swimming. (Editor’s note: that’s three-for-three for Platt in the water)

Being a DJ yourself, what songs do you hope to hear at Brandi & Brady’s wedding?
Shout! and The Roof is on Fire!!!!



True or false: Brady Smith is an amazing salsa dancer and he will break out his moves for the world at both my own wedding and his wedding.
I HEAR HE HAS ALL THE "DANCING WITH THE STARS" PAST SEASONS' SALSA MOVES ON HIS DVR ... TRUE!!

Meet Amanda

The next member of our bridal party that we will feature is a very special young lady. Not only is she a bridesmaid, but she is also the groom's sister – Miss Amanda Smith! However, she won’t have that name for long.

When our wedding takes place in June, Mandy will be Mrs. Ferro! On May 30th, Mandy will marry Norbert Ferro (another groomsman who you’ll learn more about soon).

Some Fun Facts about Amanda
* The youngest of three children, Mandy had to deal with the protective wrath of her two big brothers growing up. As you can imagine, it must have been pretty intimidating for her high school boyfriends to have to impress such intense physical specimens as Brady and Ryan.

* Easily the best looking of the Smith siblings, Amanda's brothers had to constantly put up with ribbing from their friends, who were always quick to remind them how attractive their little sis was.

* Watch out for Mandy on the dance floor - she was an Egg Harbor Township cheerleader from first grade on through high school and competed in dozens of cheer & dance competitions. Brady was thrilled to attend several ballet/dance recitals when he was younger in support of his little sis.

* The Smiths would make frequent trips down to South Florida each year to visit their grandparents and other family members. Amanda had such a good time on those trips that after high school, she decided to head south and attend the Art Institute of Miami, where she was a double-major in Fashion Merchandising and Design. She now works as a buyer for the stores aboard some of Miami’s finest cruise ships!

* Amanda was quite the creative type even before fashion school called - she even designed her own clothing line in high school called "Angel Style." Even her friends proudly rocked her designs! Rumor has it that Brady's personal clothing line - "Brady Stizzzyle" - wasn't as successful.

Q&A with Amanda:

· If you were in a beauty pageant, what category would you excel in and why? Talent-Dance, I grew up dancing and even won a dance contest once.

· If you could have one super power, what would it be and why? To fly -so I could go back and forth from Miami to NJ anytime I wanted.

· If you were in the movie “Back to the Future,” what year would you visit? Sometime in the 1950s. Something about poodle skirts, diners, & drive-in’s sound fun!

· Name three things you always have in your refrigerator. Eggs, Ketchup, & Cheese (editors note: we hope it’s Heinz Ketchup!)

· Name your favorite restaurant. Ra-sushi

· If there was a movie made about your life, which actress would play the lead role? Katherine Heigl, people say I resemble her.

· If you could only shop in one store for the rest of your life, what would it be? Target

· What song do you look forward to hearing at Brandi & Brady’s Wedding? Faith by George Michael/Limp Bizkit so I can see Brady do an encore performance of Mr. EHT.

· If you could be on one reality show, what would it be and why? Dancing with the Stars because you get to dress up in hot costumes, learn every type of dance, and get in shape at the same time.

· Who do you think will fall off the boat? Smitty?

· What was the first concert you attended? Q102, a local radio station hosted a big concert with multiple entertainers.

· How many pairs of shoes do you own? About 25, mostly sandals.

· What’s your favorite beverage? Vanilla Iced Lattes. Alcoholic-Three Olives Cherry Vodka & Cranberry.

Kevin Jordan: Groomsman

Today we get the distinct honor of introducing a legendary fellow – a man so famous among his peers that he has not one but TWO incredible nicknames (three if you count his initials – “KJ”). We could only be talking about one guy here … Mr. Kevin Jordan.


About KJ

* Kevin and Brady truly go way back – they first became friends in Mrs. Mattern’s 3rd grade class and have been laughing hysterically at each other ever since. Brady maintains to this day that Kevin is one of the funniest people he’s ever known.

* Kev’s nicknames stem from his prowess in pick-up basketball games. On the rough and tough courts of Egg Harbor Township (and Joey Carew’s backyard), he’s known as “Airmail” for his 3-point accuracy. His second nickname was coined after a teammate told him he played like Bulls sharpshooter Steve Kerr. Never one to hear people accurately, Kevin quipped back something to the effect of, “What? Street Curbs?” And thus the renowned moniker “StreetCurbs” was born.

* Simply put, Kevin is an unbelievable guitarist and musician (he plays a mean keyboard and cello too). He and Brady have always shared the same phenomenal taste in music, as they have attended dozens of concerts together throughout the years. Mr. Jordan has played in several bands and records new music frequently - you can check out his latest tunes here: http://www.myspace.com/aclavortex.

* KJ is in the Guinness Book of World Records for most Chicago visits out of all Brady’s friends at 5.

Q&A with Kevin

Who would play the lead role in a movie about your life?
Morgan Freeman

Favorite memory with Brady
Tough question ... maybe whispering sweet nothings to Marlene Stiteler in geometry class (he knows what I'm talking about).

Favorite thing about Brandi
With her you always know what you’re gonna get ... she’s an incredibly likable and very cool girl.

What are you most famous for?
My boyish good looks.

What’s your favorite adult beverage?
Jameson on the rocks.

Better city – Boston, Chicago, Pittsburgh or Philadelphia? Why?
Chi-town, cause that's where my favorite couple lives … awwww.

What was your first job?
Dishwasher at The Clam Bar, I scrubbed casserole dishes for 5 years.

Who is your celebrity crush and why?
Jennifer Love Hewitt... uh she has certain assets that I enjoy.

When you were 10 years old, what did you want to be when you grow up?
I wanted to be one of the Beatles... In fact, I still do.

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I am an expert swing dancer.

Who is the best guitarist of all time?
Me since you asked ... nah I like Johnny Greenwood from Radiohead.


What are you most excited about Brandi & Brady’s wedding?
Everything! I love weddings, mostly because I'm not the one getting married (kidding!)

Which one of your fellow groomsman has the best chance of falling off the riverboat at Brady/Brandi’s wedding?
Hmmm ... my money is on Platt (editor’s note: that marks two votes out of two Q&As for Platt so far – starting to see a pattern here).

What song(s) do you hope to hear at Brandi & Brady’s wedding?
"The Power of Love" on repeat, the whole time.

True or false: Brady Smith is a talented and underrated vocalist.
Absolutely true... ask him to sing "Somewhere Out There"... it will make you cry.

Meet Dana

In order to determine which bridesmaid would be featured next, I sent out a list of questions to the girls and said that I would post their profile in the order the returned questionnaire was delivered.

With 15 minutes, I received the answers from one Miss Dana Yingling. So today, meet Dana.

I first met Dana in fourth grade during Montour Little Spartans Cheerleading. While we were both in the same school district, we didn’t go to the same grade school.

Before I even met the legendary Dana Yingling, I knew of her. People would tell tales of her “heart shaped pool” (it’s really a “kidney stone”), her amazing wardrobe, bright blonde hair and her parents ridiculous, over-the-top Christmas light display. I knew this girl and I would totally get along.

Dana and I became really close in high school, especially during band. Yes, we were in the band and it was cool. Dana was a “Spartanette” which was the dance team and I twirled batons. We decided our senior year that we would not try out for captain so that we could “pre-game.” This involved sneaking adult beverages into Subway cups (they weren’t clear) and consuming them before the game. I believe we only attended two of the 10 games sober.

Some fun facts about Dana:
· Dana holds the record for the friend from home that visited me the most in college. Typically Dana would make the drive to Morgantown 1-2 times a semester. She's also been to Chicago more than any other friend! Dana visits each St. Patrick's Day for the party.


· Now a Cali girl, Dana has lived in Los Angeles since 2004. She moved there to attend the Fashion Institute of Merchandising and Design.

· After an injury ended her gymnastics career, Dana joined the diving team in high school.

· Dana edited our high school year book. If you ever get a chance to look at it, you will see pictures of Dana and I on almost every page.

· More fun facts: Dana loves NASCAR, she scrapbooks, her dog's name is Tonka, she's been in a movie and her mom was my sister's pre-school teacher.

Here's a Q&A with Dana:

· What’s your favorite beverage? Tejava Tea and we all know Stoli Raz ( if we're going the alcoholic route)

· If you could only shop in one store for the rest of your life, what would it be? TARGET!

· What song do you look forward to hearing at Brandi & Brady’s Wedding? Soulja Boy of course

· Who do you think will fall off the boat? Steve or maybe myself, who knows, he's been taking care of me during drinking nights lately! Haha!

· If you were in the movie “Back to the Future,” what year would you visit? 1966 the year my parents were married. I think it'd be interesting to see what life was like that year.

· How many pairs of shoes do you own? About 80+ between heels, sneakers, flats, flip flops, wedges, boots, rain boots, sandals.

· Name three things you always have in your refrigerator. Tejava Tea, Jalapenos, and Red Bull Italian dressing

· If you were going to try out for American Idol, what song would you sing?

"I came to have a party
Open off the Bacardi
Feeling so hot tamale
Boy, I know you watching' me so what's it gonna be
Purple taking me higher
I'm lifted and I like it
Boy, you got me inspired
Baby, come and get it if you're really feeling me"

Mariah Carey- It's Like That--but please don't get any ideas I will not be singing at your wedding!

Ramy Nammour – Groomsman and Friend of the Groom

Hello folks … today we bring you the second entry in our ongoing series to help you get to know the bridal party a little better.

The first strapping young male we’re going to profile is the one, the only … Mr. Ramy Nammour.

About Ramy

* Ramy and Brady have been close friends since high school, where Ramy was a shooting specialist for the EHT hoops team and sported arguably the greatest mustache in the history of high school ‘staches (more on that below).

* Mr. Nammour is a man of many fine qualities, but one of his most obvious attributes is his penchant for having a “friggen unbelievable” time at drinking establishments across the nation. It doesn’t matter if you’re in Atlantic City, Chicago, Vegas, or Pittsburgh … you’re bound to have a blast with Ram and his partner-in-crime, Pat Rone, wherever you are (Pat is our own pseudonym for Patron tequila, for those of you who don't know already).

* Ramy is an avid sports fan and likes most of the New York teams, like the Giants, the Mets and the Knicks. No really, I’m serious … he likes the Knicks. Stop laughing.

Q&A with the Ramdog

Who would play the lead role in a movie about your life? Carrot Top...We have similar hair

When you make a toast, what do you drink to? The only thing that really matters.... HEALTH AND HAPPINESS

Favorite memory with Brady? A memorable $5 dry cleaning donation. I'm not sure how much more in depth I can get than that.

** Editors note: Let’s just say it involved Brady feeling a little bad after he used Ram’s shoes/jeans for target practice in the middle of a Philly bar after one too many shots of tequila.

Favorite thing about Brandi? Her personality and of those brown cowboy boots....really hot!

What’s your favorite beverage? Unfortunately Red Bull Vodka and a cold refreshing bud light

On a scale of 1-10, how bad are the New York Knickerbockers? Define "bad"?

What town has the better cheesesteak – Philly or A.C.? Pleasantville

What was your first job? Tunnels of Fun … selling tokens on the side to little kids without the bosses knowing.

What did you want to be when you were 12 years old? A back up dancer for Vanilla Ice

Favorite Vegas hotel? The Green Monster

Which one of your fellow groomsman has the best chance of falling off the riverboat at Brandi & Brady’s wedding? That’s easy … Miiiiiiister P

What song do you hope to hear at Brandi & Brady’s wedding? Shout! If you look it up in the Guinness Book of World Records, I hold the record for getting the lowest. It’s something I take a lot of pride in.

What was the coolest thing you did in high school? Would have to be that I somehow was able to rock a solid mustache yet was still socially accepted. Kind of an impressive feat.