Wedding Day

Mohawk River Country Club & Chateau

Ceremony

Reception

Fall

Our Wedding

We knew of each other for a long time, but it took a brush fire near my house-and Johnny being his fire buff self- for our story to begin.Johnny drove by the fire scene, where my dad and I were standing and he decided that seeing me on the side of the road was a sign to reach out. You could say the rest is history.One message turned into a pre-date over breakfast. Not exactly a traditional trajectory but we were on to something! We realized that day we could talk for hours and probably not run out of things to talk about. Not too long after, we had our first date at the Altamont Fair, and from there, the adventures just kept on coming.Since then, it has been trains, firetrucks, road trips, nights in, nights out, plenty of laughs, and more memories than we could ever fit on one website. Somewhere along the way, the person we were just getting to know became the person we wanted beside us for everything.And now for our biggest adventure ever, we're getting married!We can't wait to celebrate this with the people who have loved us, supported us, laughed with us, and been part of our story along the way.We love you, and we're so excited to have you there when we say "I do".

Our Story 

Photos

Emily is the youngest of “the girls” — built-in little sister, cousin, friend, and one of Sara’s favorite people all rolled into one. Growing up together, “the girls” were practically inseparable, and Emily has always brought the fun, free-spirited energy to the group that Sara secretly always wished she had…if only she wasn’t quite so Type A. 😂But Emily’s role in Sara’s life didn’t stop at being her cousin. Funny enough, Johnny actually became friends with Emily first. So, in a way, we have Emily to thank for this whole wedding thing happening in the first place.From growing up on Waltz Lane to wedding dress shopping, Emily has been there through every stage of life. She’s the kind of person who makes everything more fun and reminds everyone to loosen up, go with the flow, and enjoy the moment.Now Emily gets to stand beside Sara as her Maid of Honor, while also being the mom of two very important members of the wedding: our flower girl and ring bearer.From “the girls” growing up to standing beside Sara on her wedding day, this feels like the perfect full-circle moment. Cousins by family, sisters by choice, and friends for life ❤️.

Emily Lubera

Catherine is Sara’s baby cousin, and one she waited 13 years for! After being the only girl on the Maher side for so long, Sara finally got a girl cousin — and she couldn’t have asked for a better one. When Catherine was born, Sara felt like she had been given a real-life baby doll to love and play with. She couldn’t wait to hold her, cuddle her, dress her up, push her around, and soak up every little moment with her. Watching her grow up has been such a gift. Catherine is one of the kindest souls you’ll ever meet. She cares deeply for the people in her life and would go out of her way for them without a second thought.Sara waited 13 years for another girl cousin, and looking back, she got exactly the one she was supposed to. She couldn’t imagine getting married without her baby cousin beside her for the next big chapter. 

Catherine Trapeni

Olivia is Sara’s niece and a little girl with a big personality! Our very own Sour Patch Kid, she’s just as happy playing in the mud as she is showing off a pretty dress and her favorite cowgirl boots. Full of spunk, sweetness, and a little bit of mischief, Olivia has brought so much joy to Aunt Sara and Uncle Johnny in her short little life. She keeps everyone on their toes and makes life a whole lot more fun just by being herself. Having Olivia as their flower girl is extra special, and Sara and Johnny couldn’t imagine their wedding day without their girl right there in the middle of it all!



Olivia Griffiths

Caitlyn is the oldest of “the girls,” which means she has been around long enough to have witnessed just about every version of Sara — and somehow has stuck around through all of them. Caitlyn has actually been calming Sara down since before either of them really knew what friendship meant. On Sara’s very first day of kindergarten, she was so inconsolable that the school staff had to pull Caitlyn out of her own class to come calm her down. Apparently, even at five years old, Sara already knew exactly who she needed when things got a little overwhelming. Some things clearly haven’t changed much!Caitlyn has always been someone Sara can turn to, whether she needs a laugh, a listening ear, or just someone who understands without needing much explanation. She has a great sense of humor, a big heart, and a way of making the people around her feel comfortable and cared for.After all these years of being “the girls,” and collecting more memories than they could probably count, it feels pretty fitting that Caitlyn will be standing beside Sara on her wedding day. She was there to get Sara through her first day of kindergarten, so it only makes sense that she’ll be there for this one too. 

Caitlyn Lubera

Sarah Bondrew 

Evelyn is Sara’s niece and one of the sweetest additions to the wedding party! She’s a softball-loving girl who is always ready for a game, whether she’s playing with her sister, friends, or cousins. She has a fun personality, a little competitive spirit, and a way of keeping everyone on their toes. Aunt Sara couldn’t imagine her big day without Ev by her side!

Evelyn Lubera

Sophia is Sara’s niece and goddaughter, and one thing is for sure: life is never boring when she’s around! A little daredevil with a big personality, she has a way of keeping everyone on their toes. She’s creative, fun-loving, and always up for an adventure, but underneath all that spunk is the sweetest girl who will never turn down an opportunity to give a hug when you need one. Aunt Sara couldn’t imagine her wedding day without Sophie by her side!

Sophia Lubera

Pippin is a special part of our wedding day, and we’re so happy to have him celebrating alongside us! With a great personality and his own unique way of making memories, we’re excited to have him be part of the fun. We’re grateful to have him standing with us as we celebrate this next chapter!

Pippin Maher

Ted has been part of Johnny’s life through the fire service for years, and at this point, he’s become much more than just a friend — he’s practically family! With Johnny and Ted sharing a love of firetrucks and trains, there’s never a shortage of things for them to talk about. To make things even better, Ted and Johnny’s dad are coworkers, making the connection between them that much stronger. Between the shared interests, years of friendship, and family ties, Ted has earned a special place in Johnny’s life. Having him stand by his side as a groomsman on his wedding day was an easy choice!

Ted Nugent Jr

Pat and Sara have been friends for 20 years, which feels both impossible and slightly concerning. They first met in Mrs. Dorpfeld’s homeroom in sixth grade, but their friendship really took off in seventh grade when they became seatmates in Mrs. Dedrick’s social studies class. And from there, Patwick and Sawa were pretty much an unbreakable duo for the rest of middle school and high school.Over the years, Pat has held many important positions in Sara’s life: best friend, confidant, voice of reason, and, most importantly, unpaid therapist. Sara has spent approximately two decades telling Pat her problems, asking for his advice, and then proceeding to do whatever she wanted anyway. To his credit, he kept giving the advice.Through teenage drama, questionable decisions, growing up, and everything in between, Pat has always been one of the people Sara could count on. Twenty years later, the nicknames may have stuck, but thankfully the friendship did too.Sara couldn’t imagine getting married without having her oldest and most trusted friend standing beside her. 

Pat Fenaughty

Dylan is one of Johnny’s good friends from the firehouse, where their friendship has grown through plenty of laughs, and the kind of experiences that come with being part of the fire service. The firehouse has brought a lot of great people into Johnny’s life, and Dylan is one of those friendships he’s grateful to have. Whether they’re spending time at the firehouse, having a bonfire, or just catching up outside, Dylan is part of the crew that makes life a little more fun. Johnny is excited to have him standing alongside him as a groomsman and celebrating this next chapter together.

Dylan Tercasio

Brian may come across as the quiet one at first, but anyone who knows him knows he has a great sense of humor and a way of making everyone around him laugh. As a firehouse friend, Johnny has gotten to know Brian both as someone who can bring some humor to a situation and as a respected leader who takes his role as Assistant Chief seriously. Outside the firehouse, Brian is also the kind of neighbor you can count on, always willing to lend a hand whenever it’s needed. Whether he’s leading at the firehouse or sharing a laugh with friends, Brian is someone people are glad to have in their corner. Johnny is happy to have him standing by his side as a groomsman!

Brian Lewis

Connor shares Johnny’s love of Pokémon, so the two always have plenty to talk about! Our resident trivia expert, Connor is full of interesting facts and has an impressive way of knowing a little bit about just about everything. He’s smart, sweet, and has the biggest heart. We couldn’t imagine celebrating our big day without him by our side!



Connor Maher

Johnny and Mike’s friendship goes all the way back to middle school, carrying through their middle school and high school years and well beyond. One of the adventures Johnny can take credit for is convincing Mike to join Civil Air Patrol, something that has since become one of Mike and Kayla’s biggest adventures together. It’s pretty special to see a friendship that started so many years ago continue to grow and lead to new experiences along the way. After all these years of friendship and memories, Johnny couldn’t imagine having his wedding day without Mike standing beside him as a groomsman!

Mike Cassidy

Johnny and Pete’s friendship dates back to high school, and somehow, they’ve managed to stay in touch just about every day ever since! A shared love of motor vehicles has always given them plenty to talk about, but it’s their long-standing friendship that has stood the test of time. From their high school days to the years that followed, Pete has been a constant in Johnny’s life, and it wouldn’t feel right celebrating such a big milestone without him by his side. Johnny is proud to have Pete standing with him as a groomsman on his wedding day!

Pete Gallo

Grant is Olivia’s twin brother and a little guy with a big personality! If it has wheels, runs on tracks, or moves in any way, chances are Grant is interested. From trucks to trains and everything in between, he has plenty of things to keep him busy. With his infectious smile and a personality that can make just about anyone laugh, Grant has a way of bringing happiness wherever he goes. He has brought so much joy to Aunt Sara and Uncle Johnny, and they couldn’t imagine their wedding day without him. They are so excited to have their favorite little guy take on the important job of ring bearer!

Grant Griffiths

Wedding Party

Q + A

Hotels

Homewood Suites by Hilton Clifton Park

Hampton Inn Clifton Park

Courtyard by Marriott Albany Clifton Park

Travel

Located&nbsp;in&nbsp;downtown&nbsp;Albany,&nbsp;the&nbsp;New&nbsp;York&nbsp;State&nbsp;Museum&nbsp;is&nbsp;a&nbsp;great&nbsp;place&nbsp;to&nbsp;explore&nbsp;New&nbsp;York’s&nbsp;history,&nbsp;culture,&nbsp;and&nbsp;natural&nbsp;wonders.&nbsp;From&nbsp;exhibits&nbsp;highlighting&nbsp;the&nbsp;state’s&nbsp;past&nbsp;to&nbsp;fascinating&nbsp;displays&nbsp;on&nbsp;science,&nbsp;art,&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;Adirondacks,&nbsp;there’s&nbsp;something&nbsp;for&nbsp;everyone.&nbsp;

New York State Museum

Take&nbsp;in&nbsp;the&nbsp;sights&nbsp;and&nbsp;history&nbsp;of&nbsp;Lake&nbsp;George,&nbsp;during&nbsp;the&nbsp;most&nbsp;stunning&nbsp;time&nbsp;of&nbsp;year!

Lake George Steamboat Company

Car&nbsp;enthusiasts&nbsp;and&nbsp;history&nbsp;buffs&nbsp;alike&nbsp;will&nbsp;enjoy&nbsp;the&nbsp;Saratoga&nbsp;Automobile&nbsp;Museum,&nbsp;located&nbsp;in&nbsp;beautiful&nbsp;Saratoga&nbsp;Spa&nbsp;State&nbsp;Park.&nbsp;Explore&nbsp;an&nbsp;impressive&nbsp;collection&nbsp;of&nbsp;classic,&nbsp;vintage,&nbsp;and&nbsp;modern&nbsp;vehicles,&nbsp;along&nbsp;with&nbsp;exhibits&nbsp;celebrating&nbsp;the&nbsp;history&nbsp;of&nbsp;automobiles&nbsp;and&nbsp;motorsports.

Saratoga Automobile Museum

Located&nbsp;in&nbsp;the&nbsp;heart&nbsp;of&nbsp;Saratoga&nbsp;Springs,&nbsp;this&nbsp;museum&nbsp;celebrates&nbsp;the&nbsp;rich&nbsp;history&nbsp;and&nbsp;traditions&nbsp;of&nbsp;thoroughbred&nbsp;horse&nbsp;racing.&nbsp;Explore&nbsp;fascinating&nbsp;exhibits,&nbsp;racing&nbsp;memorabilia,&nbsp;historic&nbsp;photographs,&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;stories&nbsp;of&nbsp;legendary&nbsp;horses,&nbsp;jockeys,&nbsp;and&nbsp;trainers&nbsp;inducted&nbsp;into&nbsp;the&nbsp;Hall&nbsp;of&nbsp;Fame.&nbsp;A&nbsp;great&nbsp;stop&nbsp;for&nbsp;anyone&nbsp;looking&nbsp;to&nbsp;experience&nbsp;a&nbsp;little&nbsp;piece&nbsp;of&nbsp;Saratoga’s&nbsp;racing&nbsp;history!

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame

Take&nbsp;in&nbsp;breathtaking&nbsp;overlooks&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Hudson&nbsp;Valley&nbsp;and&nbsp;Adirondack&nbsp;and&nbsp;Green&nbsp;Mountain&nbsp;ranges,&nbsp;explore&nbsp;scenic&nbsp;hiking&nbsp;trails,&nbsp;or&nbsp;simply&nbsp;enjoy&nbsp;the&nbsp;natural&nbsp;beauty&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Helderberg&nbsp;Escarpment.&nbsp;A&nbsp;great&nbsp;spot&nbsp;for&nbsp;fresh&nbsp;air,&nbsp;outdoor&nbsp;adventure,&nbsp;and&nbsp;some&nbsp;picture-perfect&nbsp;views!

High Point (Thacher Park)

Enjoy&nbsp;a&nbsp;taste&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Capital&nbsp;Region&nbsp;at&nbsp;Saratoga&nbsp;Winery!&nbsp;Located&nbsp;just&nbsp;outside&nbsp;downtown&nbsp;Saratoga&nbsp;Springs,&nbsp;this&nbsp;cozy&nbsp;winery&nbsp;offers&nbsp;locally&nbsp;crafted&nbsp;wines,&nbsp;beautiful&nbsp;surroundings,&nbsp;and&nbsp;a&nbsp;relaxed&nbsp;atmosphere.&nbsp;Stop&nbsp;by&nbsp;for&nbsp;a&nbsp;wine&nbsp;tasting&nbsp;enjoy&nbsp;a&nbsp;little&nbsp;downtime&nbsp;during&nbsp;your&nbsp;visit&nbsp;to&nbsp;the&nbsp;area.

The Saratoga Winery

A&nbsp;family-owned&nbsp;farm&nbsp;in&nbsp;Rexford,&nbsp;Bowman&nbsp;Orchards&nbsp;is&nbsp;a&nbsp;fun&nbsp;stop&nbsp;for&nbsp;a&nbsp;little&nbsp;taste&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;season!&nbsp;Enjoy&nbsp;apple&nbsp;picking,&nbsp;fresh-baked&nbsp;treats,&nbsp;homemade&nbsp;cider,&nbsp;and&nbsp;a&nbsp;variety&nbsp;of&nbsp;farm-fresh&nbsp;goodies.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;a&nbsp;great&nbsp;place&nbsp;to&nbsp;experience&nbsp;a&nbsp;little&nbsp;local&nbsp;charm&nbsp;and&nbsp;take&nbsp;home&nbsp;something&nbsp;delicious!

Bowman Orchards

Located&nbsp;in&nbsp;downtown&nbsp;Queensbury,&nbsp;Adirondack&nbsp;Winery&nbsp;is&nbsp;a&nbsp;great&nbsp;stop&nbsp;for&nbsp;wine&nbsp;lovers&nbsp;looking&nbsp;to&nbsp;sample&nbsp;some&nbsp;locally&nbsp;crafted&nbsp;New&nbsp;York&nbsp;wines.&nbsp;With&nbsp;a&nbsp;wide&nbsp;variety&nbsp;of&nbsp;reds,&nbsp;whites,&nbsp;rosés,&nbsp;and&nbsp;unique&nbsp;specialty&nbsp;blends,&nbsp;there’s&nbsp;something&nbsp;for&nbsp;just&nbsp;about&nbsp;every&nbsp;palate.&nbsp;Stop&nbsp;in&nbsp;for&nbsp;a&nbsp;tasting,&nbsp;discover&nbsp;a&nbsp;new&nbsp;favorite,&nbsp;and&nbsp;enjoy&nbsp;a&nbsp;little&nbsp;taste&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Adirondacks!

Sara & Johnny

Sara & Johnny

Dress Code

SEMI-FORMAL

Ideas & Advice