Bar 10 @ The Westin Copley Place Boston

Rehearsal Dinner

Boston Public Library

Wedding Day

Ceremony

The Westin Copley Place Boston

Brunch

Our Wedding

869-6563. That was my number. The first one I ever had, and the one I gave him when I was 17. I can still see the ripped napkin I scribbled it on, inside a dimly lit, 20-and-under dance club. The music was loud, his smile louder, and my heart beating faster than “Come Go With Me” by Exposé. Over the years, our numbers changed, and life happened. Some connections don’t fade. They wait. People come in and out of our lives. Some stay for a season, others for a reason, and then, if you’re really lucky, some find their way back at exactly the right time. They say if you love something, let it go. And if it’s meant to be, it will come back to you. And here we are. This life would not be the same without us choosing again. Without this return. Without this love. We are so grateful we don’t have to wonder or wish anymore. We just get to be here, together. And that… is everything.

It was always you

Our Story

These photos will change each month, like a story unfolding page by page. We begin here, in the present, with our engagement. From this moment, we return to the early versions of ourselves. The opening lines. The dog-eared pages of childhood. The sentences life was already writing long before we knew how the story would read. Then, the narrative will carry us forward. Through chapters of growth, edits and revisions, paths chosen and rewritten. Through moments that shaped us, marked us, and quietly prepared us to meet again in the margins of time. We invite you to return each month as another chapter is shared. A love written slowly, intentionally, and always finding its way back to the story it was meant to become.

Photos

Manny has been one of the great constants in Derek’s life. As his chosen brother, he has been a steady and grounding presence, someone who understands Derek’s heart without explanation and stands beside him with centering strength and unwavering care. Their bond was shaped through shared experience, shared values, and a deep commitment to truth. They move through the world with intention and integrity, aware of the weight it can place on their shoulders, choosing honesty, tenderness, and trust instead of silence or deflection. What defines their connection has never been what they have accomplished, only who they are when no one is watching.
Their bond has only strengthened over time, grounded in brilliance, integrity, and a shared commitment to showing up fully in both life and work. Life has tested them in different ways, and they have remained intentionally connected through every season, choosing friendship again and again. Having Manny stand with us on this day feels not only right, it feels anchoring. A living reflection of loyalty, gratitude, and a brotherhood carried across a lifetime.

Manny Cho

Noreen has been part of Meg’s life for decades, a presence that arrived early and proved essential almost immediately. What began as a professional connection quickly revealed something far deeper. A knowing. A certainty. They were meant to walk beside one another. Her brilliance and grounded clarity met Meg’s spirit and heart, and found its place without question.
Some people enter unexpectedly and become indispensable. Her laughter softened the hardest days. Her honesty brought balance and perspective. Her love became something life naturally grew around, never something to doubt or define. Through marriages, children, and years marked by distance, their bond held fast. It only added depth.
Noreen knows when to stand firm and when to be wonderfully ridiculous. They share a language made of glances and inside jokes, the kind that need no explanation. One look and laughter arrives. So does home. She is Meg’s chosen sister. Her constant. Her safe place. What they share is rare and enduring. She is one of the greatest gifts of this life.

Noreen Hong

Craig is family by choice and by action. From the beginning, he met Meg with an open heart, offering a generosity of spirit that created belonging without question. He showed up in the moments that mattered, holding space with presence, care, and an intuitive understanding of what was needed. Deeply funny and deeply thoughtful, he is a true friend, someone whose warmth and loyalty are felt rather than announced.
He welcomed Derek as a brother with the same openness and sincerity he has always shown Meg, extending connection as naturally as breathing. Having Craig stand on Meg’s side of the wedding party feels entirely right. A reflection of chosen family, constancy, and love given freely. Some people protect and uplift without ceremony or expectation. Craig is one of those people, and we are profoundly grateful to walk this day with him beside us.

Craig Weiss

Kristen Rae has been part of Meg’s life since high school, from a time when they were still becoming who they would one day be. She stood beside Meg the night she first met Derek, witnessing the beginning of a story that would quietly shape what followed. Through years of change, distance, and growth, their connection remained intact, carried by understanding and trust rather than proximity.
She has known Meg in every season, bringing kindness, perspective, and a sense of wholeness that feels deeply familiar. She welcomed Derek with warmth, as someone who already understood the history that brought them here. Having Kristen stand with Meg on this day feels entirely right. A reflection of loyalty, continuity, and a friendship that has endured across time. This day is richer with her by our side. 

Kristen Gardula

Derek’s sister has always shared his rhythm. As his older sibling, she has been a steady and grounding presence in his life. Someone who knows his heart without being told and walks beside him with centering strength and unwavering understanding. Their bond was shaped early through music, culture, and a deep way of seeing one another that does not need explanation. They move through the world with curiosity and intention, drawn toward experiences that deepen them, relationships that matter, and growth that feels true. What defines them has never been what they have accomplished, only who they are when no one is watching. Having her stand with Derek on this day feels not only right, it feels rooted. A living reflection of respect, joy, and a shared spirit carried across a lifetime.

Saundra Thomas

Kevin is one of those people whose presence immediately lifts a room. His humor comes easily, his joy is contagious, and being around him always feels lighter. Through every season, both joyful and challenging, he has shown up for Derek with loyalty, generosity, and a willingness to give whatever is needed, in ways both seen and unseen. He has embraced Derek’s family as his own, and the bond they share has long felt mutual and unquestioned.
Beneath the laughter is a deeply generous and caring soul, someone whose heart leads before anything else. Kevin is the kind of brother chosen through life rather than circumstance, one who has earned that place through consistency, care, and love. Having him stand with Derek on this day feels entirely right. A reflection of joy, devotion, and a friendship built to last.

Kevin Dailey

Elena has been part of Meg’s life as someone steady, unwavering, and deeply true, the kind of presence that does not fade with time or distance. From the moment they became friends, she has been that rare ride or die friend, someone Meg can call at any hour, from anywhere, knowing Elena will be there. Even in the spaces between conversations or time apart, they have always picked up exactly where they left off, as if no time has passed.
She has known Meg through many seasons, offering kindness, honesty, and a sense of grounding that feels both comforting and real. Elena carries a gentle spirit, yet stands fiercely and authentically in who she is, a balance that makes her presence unforgettable. Having her stand beside Meg on this day feels entirely right, a reflection of loyalty, trust, and a friendship that has remained constant through it all.

Elena Johnson

Joel is one of those rare friends whose connection with Derek has only grown stronger with time and distance. What began as a workplace friendship quickly became something much deeper, built on shared experiences, mutual respect, and an easy understanding that has never faded. Even through years of living in different places and navigating separate paths, their bond has remained steady, rooted in a quiet certainty that they will always show up for one another.
Through life’s highs and lows, Joel has been a constant—offering support, perspective, and unwavering loyalty both personally and professionally. Their friendship has been shaped not just by the good times they’ve celebrated, but by the challenges they’ve helped each other face, always with honesty and trust. No matter the miles between them, there has never been any doubt that they have each other’s backs.
At his core, Joel is thoughtful, dependable, and deeply genuine. He is the kind of friend who stands the test of time, not because it’s easy, but because he chooses to, again and again. Having him stand beside Derek on this day feels entirely fitting—a reflection of enduring friendship, shared history, and a bond that has only strengthened over the years.

Joel Tealer

Tony is Derek’s cousin, and  his brother in every way that truly matters. He is one of the most important people in our lives. He was also there the night we first met as teenagers. Tony and Derek grew up side by side, witnessing every version of one another, walking through life with a bond rooted in truth, loyalty, and deep family love.

He, like Derek, is an evolved man with rare insight and compassion, shaped by a life lived with intention and heart. He knows Derek deeply and loves him fiercely, and he holds both of us with a care that feels sacred. For him to stand with us as our officiant feels profoundly fitting. He has and will always been a strong thread running through our lives. He weaves together family, history, and belonging. Having him be the one to join us in marriage is an honor beyond words.

He is family. He is truth. And we are endlessly grateful for the love he brings to this moment.

Tony Fields

Wedding Party

We invite our guests to dress to the nines. Tuxedos and formal gowns are more than encouraged for an evening of timeless elegance, celebration, and serious dancing. Glamour is required. Mobility is highly recommended!

See links for ideas: <a href="https://www.brides.com/story/black-tie-wedding-guest-dress-code-long-gowns" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.brides.com/story/black-tie-wedding-guest-dress-code-long-gowns</a>

<a href="https://www.theknot.com/content/what-to-wear-black-tie" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.theknot.com/content/what-to-wear-black-tie</a>

Dress Code

When is the wedding?Our wedding will take place on September 25, 2026 at 7:00 PM. Where will the ceremony and reception be held?The entire wedding will be at the Boston Public Library. At the 230 Dartmouth Street entrance. What time should guests arrive?Please plan to arrive promptly at 6:45 PM to allow time for seating.What is the dress code?Black tie. Tuxedos and formal gowns are encouraged for an evening of timeless elegance, celebration, and dancing. Choose something beautiful and comfortable enough to enjoy the dance floor.Are children invited?While we love the little ones, this will be an adults-only celebration.Will the wedding be indoors or outdoors?The ceremony will be held outdoors, weather permitting. The reception will take place indoors.Is there a hotel room block or recommended accommodations?Yes. Please visit the Travel &amp; Accommodations section of our website for hotel recommendations and room block details.How should we get around Boston?Boston is very walkable, and rideshare services, taxis, and public transportation are readily available. Additional transportation details can be found in the Travel section of our website.Will parking be available?Parking at the Westin @ Copley is valet only and limited. There are other garages available nearby, although we highly recommend using ride-share services or public transportation when possible. Please see the Travel section of our website for more information.What should we do while we’re in Boston?We’ve shared a curated list of favorite places to explore, dine, and enjoy the city. Visit the Things to Do section of our website for recommendations.What will be served at the reception?Dinner will be a plated, formal meal. Please note any dietary restrictions when you RSVP.Can I bring a guest?Due to limited space, we are only able to accommodate guests listed on your invitation.Are there wedding colors or a theme guests should know about?Our celebration is inspired by European library elegance. Guests are welcome to lean into classic, timeless tones.Will there be dancing?Yes. Absolutely, and a lot of it. Come ready to celebrate and spend time on the dance floor.Are gifts expected?Your presence is the greatest gift to us. In lieu of traditional gifts, we kindly invite those who wish to honor us to consider making a donation to one of our favorite charities. Links will be shared here.Who should I contact with questions?Please reach out to Meg: 4evermegnificentthomas@gmail.com with any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions and answers 

Q + A

Travel &amp; Accommodations We’re so glad you’ll be joining us in our "hometown", Boston! Below is helpful information to make planning your visit easy and enjoyable. Getting to Boston By Air: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is approximately 15–20 minutes from downtown Boston. By Train: Amtrak and MBTA Commuter Rail services arrive at Back Bay Station, which is within walking distance of the Boston Public Library. Hotel Accommodations We recommend staying with our featured hotel or near Copley Square / Back Bay, across the street from the Boston Public Library and all wedding events. Featured Hotel: The Westin Copley Place, Boston — MAKING RESERVATIONSWe reserved and are responsible for a room block at the Westin Copley Place. This is so our friends and family can stay together and enjoy the full wedding weekend experience. We understand that this can be an expensive time of year in our beautiful city, therefore we negotiated below market rates. If you plan to stay in Boston, we warmly encourage booking here. Again, we would love to have everyone together. Website is available now to book your hotel room online. <a href="https://book.passkey.com/e/51154399" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://book.passkey.com/e/51154399</a> Address:10 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02116 This hotel is a highly convenient and comfortable choice in Back Bay — within steps and only one crosswalk away from the Boston Public Library, shops, restaurants, and transit. This is the busy time of year in Boston. The location and rates are the very best for everyone to celebrate together. Getting Around Boston is very walkable, especially in the Back Bay area.Rideshare services and taxis are readily availablePublic transportation is convenient and nearby Parking There are several parking garages near the Boston Public Library. We recommend rideshare or public transportation when possible. Things to Do We’ve shared a curated list of favorite places to explore, dine, and enjoy the city. Please visit the Things to Do section of our website for recommendations. Questions If you have any questions while planning your trip, please visit the Q &amp; A section or reach out through the Contact page.

Travel

Things to Do in Boston: September is one of the most beautiful times to experience the city. Early fall brings mild weather, changing leaves, and the perfect balance of energy and charm. If you’re visiting for our wedding weekend, here are a few favorite ways to explore Boston. Classic Boston Experiences Walk the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path through historic neighborhoods and iconic landmarks. Stroll through Boston Common and the Public Garden, especially lovely in early fall. Explore Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market for shopping, food, and waterfront views. Take in panoramic city views from View Boston at the Prudential Center. Neighborhoods to Explore The North End (Boston’s Little Italy) for incredible Italian food, coffee, and pastries. Newbury Street for boutique shopping, galleries, and cafés. Beacon Hill, known for its cobblestone streets, gas lamps, and classic Boston charm. The Seaport District for modern dining, harbor walks, and waterfront views. Culture, Food, and Arts Visit the Museum of Fine Arts or the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Enjoy a harbor cruise or sail on the Charles River for a scenic perspective of the city. Experience Boston’s vibrant food scene, from historic taverns to award-winning restaurants. Sports and Entertainment Tour Fenway Park, one of the most iconic ballparks in the country. Check local listings for concerts, theater, or live music happening that weekend. Seasonal Highlights Outdoor dining and patios throughout the city. Farmers markets and early fall festivals. Crisp evenings perfect for walking tours or waterfront strolls. Getting Around Boston is a very walkable city, and many neighborhoods are easily accessible without a car. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available and convenient for short trips. Taxis are also readily available throughout the city. For public transportation, the MBTA (the “T”) offers subway, bus, and commuter rail service and is an easy way to get around. Parking can be limited and expensive in certain areas, so we recommend using public transportation or rideshare whenever possible. Dining Near Our Venue Our venue, the Boston Public Library, is located in the Back Bay neighborhood and is surrounded by wonderful dining options. Within walking distance, you’ll find everything from classic Boston restaurants to casual cafés and upscale dining. Nearby favorites include restaurants along Newbury Street, cozy spots throughout Back Bay, and additional options just a short walk away in Beacon Hill and the South End. We recommend making reservations in advance, as September is a busy and popular time in the city. Here's just a few: Back Bay &amp; Newbury Street (Upscale to Fun)Higher-End &amp; Special OccasionAbe &amp; Louie's – Classic Boston steakhouse with exceptional cuts and atmosphere — perfect for a celebratory dinner. <a href="https://www.opentable.com/neighborhood/boston/back-bay-restaurants?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">OpenTable</a>Sorellina – Elegant Italian fine dining ideal for a memorable night out. <a href="https://www.elevatedboston.com/blog/posts/2025/03/04/top-10-restaurants-in-back-bay-boston/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Elevated Residential</a>Deuxave – Modern French cuisine, refined and perfect for a special meal. <a href="https://www.elevatedboston.com/blog/posts/2025/03/04/top-10-restaurants-in-back-bay-boston/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Elevated Residential</a>Great Mid-Range &amp; Highly RatedSaltie Girl – Seafood lovers’ favorite with fresh oysters and seafood towers. <a href="https://www.elevatedboston.com/blog/posts/2025/03/04/top-10-restaurants-in-back-bay-boston/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Elevated Residential</a>Atlantic Fish Company – Classic seafood spot with timeless New England flavors. <a href="https://www.opentable.com/neighborhood/boston/back-bay-restaurants?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">OpenTable</a>Krasi – Contemporary Greek with a fun shareable vibe and excellent service. <a href="https://offthebeatenpathfoodtours.com/blog/things-to-do-in-back-bay-boston-food-tour/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Off the Beaten Path Food Tours</a>More Casual &amp; FunThe Salty Pig – Relaxed New American with pizza and small plates. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Back+Bay+Restaurants&amp;find_loc=Boston%2C+MA&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Yelp</a>Cactus Club Cafe – Lively atmosphere with sushi, cocktails, and pasta. <a href="https://www.opentable.com/neighborhood/boston/back-bay-restaurants?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">OpenTable</a>Lolita Back Bay – Mexican fare and fun late-night vibe. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Back+Bay+Restaurants&amp;find_loc=Boston%2C+MA&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Yelp</a>Cafe sauvage – Stylish French brunch/lunch spot on Newbury with a lively weekend crowd. <a href="https://boston.eater.com/dining-report/123276/cafe-sauvage-review-back-bay-boston-french?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eater Boston</a>Willow &amp; Ivy – Stylish option for brunch or casual brunch-to-dinner grazing. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Back+Bay+Restaurants&amp;find_loc=Boston%2C+MA&amp;utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Yelp</a>Beacon Hill (Historic + Chic)High-End &amp; ClassicZurito – Stylish Basque-inspired tapas and wine bar with great ambiance. <a href="https://www.theinfatuation.com/boston/guides/best-restaurants-beacon-hill?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Infatuation</a>Neighborhood FavoritesBeacon Hill also has beloved local restaurants and pubs like Mooo, No. 9 Park, 75 Chestnut, and Toscano — all recommended in local guides for excellent food and classic Boston charm. <a href="https://www.staynewengland.com/beacon-hill-restaurants/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Stay New England</a>South End (Trendy &amp; Highly Rated)Special &amp; Highly RatedSRV – Italian small plates and standout pasta in a vibrant space. <a href="https://boston.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-south-end-boston?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eater Boston</a>Toro – Spanish small plates and lively atmosphere — perfect for sharing. <a href="https://www.opentable.com/neighborhood/boston/south-end-restaurants?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">OpenTable</a>Bar Mezzana – Stylish Italian with a warm, fun vibe. <a href="https://boston.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-south-end-boston?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eater Boston</a>Gigi – Casual and creative Italian fare with craft cocktails. <a href="https://boston.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-south-end-boston?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eater Boston</a>Casual &amp; Crowd-PleasersMetropolis – Great brunch spot with classic favorites. <a href="https://boston.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-south-end-boston?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eater Boston</a>Louis Corner – Cozy gastropub with a fun, laid-back feel.

Meg & Derek

Meg & Derek

Travel