Wedding Party
Akari Lang
Bride
Wow I’ve always wanted to get married
Marc Millard
Groom
Who are you?
Victoria Ogley
Maid of Honor
Akari and Victoria first crossed paths in 2015 when they ended up sitting next to each other in the same class. Neither of them thought much of it at the time, and they both assumed it would be one of those relationships that only exist within the classroom. But then they kept getting placed in the same classes—over and over again. Eventually, after another class, Victoria drove Akari home, and they ended up talking for hours in Akari’s parents' driveway. And here they are, 10 years later. Victoria has truly been there through it all.
Cody Lee
Best Man
Cody has been one of Marc's best friends for as long as he's had a best friend (around 20 or so years). They go as far back as playing Tetris on Cody's Xbox in his living room, eating Dairy Queen and then biking 30 min in the summer heat, to seeing DeadMau5 at Marc's first live concert, and even playing League of Legends until 2 am during the pandemic. Marc values their long relationship and history deeply, drawing inspiration from Cody's fresh perspective and ideas. Throughout the years of laughter and friendship, Marc is excited to have Cody present when he seals the deal.
Ayana Sakano
Bridesmaid
Akari and Ayana met toward the end of 2015. Earlier that year, Akari had desperately wanted to attend her coming-of-age ceremony in Japan, but she struggled to find a kimono shop willing to take her on as a client. Many of them were suspicious of an international call, so Akari even had her Japanese friends pretend to be her parents to get taken seriously. Eventually, one kimono store agreed to help her, feeling it was fate since their daughter was about to leave for a language exchange in Canada. That daughter was Ayana. Over the years, Akari and Ayana grew incredibly close, and now, 10 years later, Akari still visits Ayana’s family every time she’s in Japan. Akari is now an honorary Sakano family member.
Tim Rowe
Groomsman
Tim and Marc have been good friends for close to 15 years and share many memories together. Tim has has always been an influential role model to Marc throughout the years with a positive attitude. He has provided a lot of support not just to Marc, but to his friends, family, and community. Tim has a heart of gold and always wants the best for those he cares about. He is a professional Chef whom Marc would gladly give a Michelin Star to, not just for his cooking, but for his friendship.
Aliza Lee-Tung
Bridesmaid
Akari and Aliza met in 2021. Akari had just started a new job, and was not interested in making friends at work. Aliza also kinda intimidated Akari—like, "she can make me cry" type of energy. So they only had bare minimum work related conversations the first year. The following year, they started to talk more. Maybe it’s trauma bonding from toxic work environment. Akari found out Aliza is actually "a cinnamon roll who looks like it can kill you". Akari left the job over a year ago, but they still see each other at least once or twice a month for head spas (their favourite way to spend adult money), grocery shopping, eat food, and girls night.
Cody Berry
Groomsman
Cody is a humble Paragon of Virtue. Their friendship started at a young age and has lasted near 20 years, aging like fine wine. Cody truly sees the good in people and puts in the work for those he cares about. He is always kind to everyone he meets, polite, open minded, and true to himself. Marc values Cody's friendship for the memories, his personality, and the fact that because Cody exists, the world is a nicer place.
Michael Wu
Bridesman
Akari and Michael met in 2005 when they were in elementary school. At the time, Akari’s English wasn’t great, so she struggled to make friends and often felt alone. One day, Michael invited her to join him and his friends to play. Akari was hesitant, but she went along, only for his friends to boo him for inviting a girl. Michael, unphased, responded “If you don’t like it, go play somewhere else.” From that moment on, Michael became Akari’s hero and the first real friend she’d ever had. Over the years, Michael became like a brother to her. Although they lost touch for a few years as adults, Michael returned with the same kind heart he’s always had. Here’s to 20 years of friendship.
Colin Macdonald
Groomsman
When Colin's involved you know you're in for a good time with his positive attitude and welcoming personality. Over the years Marc and Colin have become good friends sharing lots of memories and laughter. Colin's been a close friend for years, always offering a consistent approach and personable conversation. Whenever the two of them chat Marc always looks forward to hearing about what's new with Colin and catching up. Whether it's chatting about how the Leafs are going to win or what project he is working on, Colin's attitude and appreciation for life inspires.
James Lau
Bridesman
Akari and James met in 2013. They met in JISA. James had quickly assumed the role of onii chan (big brother) after seeing the weebs of JISA target Akari for being Japanese. Akari was going through some tough time wrapped up in drama she never asked for and James vowed to be the onii chan she's never had moving forward. When Akari said you’ll forget in few years, James promised he won’t. From that point on, every siblinversary, James messages Akari he has not forgotten. Very Onii chan, Very demure. Still takes care of Akari 12 years later.
Zachary Langlan
Groomsman
One of the most reliable people Marc knows, always showing up for the team and putting his best foot forward. Throughout their years of friendship Zach's always brought good jokes and cheer. Zach brings a fresh honesty and approach to many topics, bridging opinions from different perspectives together. He also lived in Waterloo during post-secondary education, and although they had separate academic careers, Marc appreciates the shared experiences and references from that time.
Simba Pancake Lang-Millard
Flower Child
I met mom in 2016. I was the biggest cat in cat cafe. Mom had no intention of adopting a cat until she saw me. I just got beat up by this other female cat. I have social + environmental anxiety, and 50% of population is allergic to me *sadness*. So I will be staying home. But everyone else should go. Just bring me churu if you come visit me. I like sous vide fish or chimken.
Jean Yee-Millard
Mother of the Groom
You should say hi to my mom and introduce yourself, if you don't know her already. She's a wonderfully social woman who raised Marc with his late father John. The three of them are a family they hold dear and has deeply shaped Marc's development into the man he is today. Jean welcomes Akari into their family to start a new chapter together as a member of the Millard family.