Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m Holli, and I’ve had the honor of knowing James for about 15 years. When I first met James at NBCUniversal, he was, well... a fabulous curmudgeon. Stylish blazers? Always. Warm hugs? Never. Outdoorsy? Not unless 'outdoors' means boozy brunch. And the idea of him sticking his feet in the sand? Absolutely laughable. 

I think our friendship was officially sealed during a business trip to New York. We had epic dinners on NBC’s dime, and James introduced me to the iconic Stonewall Bar, telling me all about its history. And as we walked down the street, something magical happened—James linked arms with me. It was like a rare eclipse. I thought, ‘Wow, James Tella actually *likes* me.’ That was the moment I knew we were truly friends.

When he moved back to LA, life was fantastic. He’d swing by with his delicious homemade cookies and pies, and we even sheltered in place together during the pandemic. He shared with me his adventures in dating (and when I say dating I mean “dating”..wink wink) one thing seemed certain: James was going to be a forever bachelor. He wasn’t dating anyone seriously, and after 15 years, I was convinced that this was just who he was—content, single, fabulously Grinchy about romance.

And then… John entered the picture. James tells me one day that he met a ‘cute pocket gay with a great ass’ in palm springs. And the next thing I know, James is flying off to Texas, John’s coming to LA, and, suddenly—James Tella, the fabulous curmudgeon, has a BOYFRIEND. It was like watching the Grinch’s heart grow three sizes that day!

John, I have no idea what kind of magic you worked, but you turned our stylish Grinch into a man in love. Not only that, but now James is doing things I thought I’d never see—like sticking his toes in actual sand! Giving great big bear hugs, telling me he loves me! (Although, we’re still perfecting that one). Needless to say, that’s true love. 

I was sad when James left LA for San Antonio, but seeing the two of you together, it’s clear that James has found his person. You complement each other so beautifully, and, John, I have to say thank you—for giving us a James with a heart three times its original size.

So, everyone, raise your glass to James and John—a wedding miracle. May your love grow even bigger than the Grinch’s heart and be sweeter than James' pies. Cheers!"