Wedding Party
Aaron Valencia
Best Man
Growing up with Aaron was both a blessing and a challenge, one that didn’t always feel like a blessing at the time, but absolutely does now. He gave us the full older-brother experience, making sure we never missed a moment of it. From playful torment to relentless rage-baiting, he kept life interesting and unforgettable. Even the rough moments like being pushed off the couch or ending up with a broken pinkie are part of the story now. Looking back, it’s easy to see how much love was wrapped up in all of it. I guess that’s what older brothers do in their own way. They shape you, protect you, and help build the person you become.
Ace Gutierrez
Groomsman
Chaotic, occasionally annoying, but forever a true ride-or-die. A lifelong copycat who followed in my footsteps (sometimes a little too closely), he’s been there through every phase, every laugh, and every mess. Equal parts trouble and loyalty, he’s proof that the best brothers are the ones who drive you crazy… and wouldn’t trade for the world.
Roldolfo Garcia
Groomsman
I first met him back in third grade, and at the time, I actually pretended I didn’t know him for a while. Our friendship didn’t really start to grow until fifth or sixth grade, when we’d spend afternoons playing schoolyard football. From there, everything took off, especially with the rise of Fortnite. Even when we ended up at different middle schools, video games kept us connected. And when I eventually moved away to Washington, that connection never faded. No matter the distance, we stayed in touch. Every time I came back home to Fresno, I made it a point to stop by, see him, and spend time together because some friendships just stick, no matter where life takes you.
Alonso Figueroa
Groomsman
Alonso and my friendship began in Mr. Haynes’s sixth-grade class, and from the very start, it felt easy and real. What I’ve always loved most is how we connected through the same sense of humor it made every moment feel lighter. I still laugh about the time where we went to camp together, where we somehow managed to get caught messing around with some random guy’s truck nuts, proof that our humor has always been questionable. We were always talking about sports, so it makes perfect sense that he wants to be a sports journalist on the East Coast now. Which feels crazy, but no matter where he ends up, I know our friendship isn’t going anywhere. Some connections just stick, and ours is definitely one of them.
Gabriel Muñoz
Groomsman
A friend since kindergarten, but the real bond was locked in during sixth grade. Somehow, they always ended up in the same field trip chaperone group—clearly fate at work. Even after hundreds of miles apart, he became the main point of contact, busy lives, and the occasional “I’ll call you back” that took weeks. Through every phase of life, he’s been the one who stayed in touch the most, knew all the updates, and proved that real friendships survive distance and time.
Lesley Santana
Maid of Honor
Lesley and I have been lifelong friends, growing side by side from our carefree elementary school days, through every awkward middle school moment, all the way to our unforgettable high-school adventures and now into adulthood. She has been there through every season of my life. She’s not just a friend she’s my soul sister, my constant, and someone I truly couldn’t imagine living without.
Mayeli Tinoco
Bridesmaid
Mayeli and I found each other at the perfect time. We’d seen each other in passing during middle school, then drifted apart until fate brought us back together in high school. From the moment we reconnected, we were inseparable. No matter how many friend groups came and went, we never left each other’s side. Since graduating, she’s the one friend who has stayed in my life, and I couldn’t be prouder or more grateful to call her my friend.
Nena Pacheco
Bridesmaid
Nena and I are cousins, and even though we aren’t close in age, I thank God you never let that matter. You’ve shown me what it truly feels like to have a girl cousin who always has your back. From our vacations in Cali to the crazy stories we’ll always keep between us, every memory with you is unforgettable. I love that you are unapologetically, and you’ve shown me that real connections can be even stronger than blood. I love you so much, and I’m beyond grateful to call you my cousin.
Priscilla Brocatto
Bridesmaid
Even though we haven’t known each other for very long, I’m so grateful our paths crossed exactly where they did. You’ve taught me not to be afraid to show my love for God, and that alone means more than you know. No matter where we are, we always find a way to have a great time together. I’m truly blessed to call you my sister in Christ, and I can’t wait to keep building this beautiful friendship.
Giselle Loera
Bridesman
Giselle and I have known each other since middle school. Back then, she was my only friend but I never cared, because we connected in so many ways. Even when we ended up at different high schools, we never lost touch. And when she moved all the way to California, our friendship still stayed strong. I love that we’ve always been there for each other through every tough moment. I’m so grateful that after all these years, I can still proudly call you my friend.
