Matron of Honor
From AIM in middle and high school, to Facebook Messenger in college, to Google Hangouts in adult life, you have been my constant “Good Morning!” text recipient and closest confidant. You’ve put up with me on one too many occasions (Spongebob re-enactment skits ring a bell?) and I truly don’t know what I did to deserve a friend as patient and supportive as you. You’ve been #myperson for as long as I knew what that phrase meant and I know you’ll train Justin accordingly to hand over that title.
Best Man
Ramil, we've known each other for as long as I can remember. From SHS, to Tulane, to 312 Homedale, to Now. You've been a voice of reason, a sounding board, and a support for pretty much every major event in my life. Even though you've morphed into quite the hipster (see photo) you're the only choice for my Best Man. As we move into marriage and our thirties, I'm glad I've got you to climb both literal and metaphorical mountains with.
Bridesmaid
The tator tot to my lain-dawg. The reigning double-chin queen. The one and only, tatesmagates. The fact that you were one of my closest friends through my ratchet, leopard-obsessed, Ke$ha-wanna-be phase freshman year of college says something about the sweet, loyal lady that you are. You even put up with me when I made you watch over 8 straight hours of Making a Murderer in one day and if that’s not friendship, I don’t know what is. Can’t wait to duck dance with you as a couple of ol’ married ladies in a few months!
Groomsman
Link's taunt in the classic Super Smash Bros always come to mind when I think about how far we've come in these last few years dude. To think it all started with that fateful meeting at Encore Decor (for those not in the know, it's Jacksonville's hottest, slightly used furniture boutique). I can't wait for the big day! And to any challenges that may come me and Lainey's way I say, "Eh..."
Bridesman
I remember the day Justin came home from working at ABP and said, “I think I have a new friend!” I feel like from that moment we were all instantly best friends and, crazily enough, we were all eventually coworkers! (I promise I will never put you through another summer of me as your boss). Manny, you’re our favorite third-wheel and mouth-to-feed. You’re a friend who quickly felt like family and we couldn’t fathom the idea of getting married without you up there with us. Climb on, our wayward son!
Groomswoman
WILLIE P!! Though we've learned in recent days that some have come to see you as a bully...I think I speak for everyone in saying that anyone that believes that is a weak minded a-hole and knows nothing. Another Fire Dept. cadet-mate, Williams and I met during the academy and were both assigned to Engine 04 at its start. Heather, you've got the fittest dog in Austin, per Austin Fit Magazine 2019, your coffee shop knowledge is second to none, and you're an all around bad-ass. I'm so glad you'll be with me on the big day and that you accepted the responsibility to class up this groom's party (because God knows we'll need it).
Bridesmaid
Kam, Jam, Jammers, baby sis- of course I couldn’t get married without you making sure my makeup is Instagram-ready. Even though you’re a super cool *college girl* now, I will always think of you as the twerp who slept in my bed and stole my clothes (which I secretly loved). Sorry for always making you be “it” in Tag growing up, I hope having you in my bridal party makes up for it. It’s crazy to think that we’ll have different last names for the first time in our lives but you’ll always be my sassy, spunky baby sis!
Groomsman
Mighty Mo, I'm so glad we met during the academy! Your friendship, humor, and ungodly work ethic made the trials of the academy fade (clean those tools!). I mean, it still felt like it took forever but you at least helped to make it entertaining. Even though I couldn't convince you to join me at Station 14, I'm so glad I was able to sell you on joining my bridal party. You've got a sense of humor on par with a young Jim Belushi and a sardonic smile that reminds me of an older Eric Idle. Who knows, maybe we'll all have kids around the same time (when you have another) and we have a first (eek) and they can all be friends!
Bridesmaid
How lucky am I that my soon-to-be sister is the most creative, thoughtful, animal-loving lady that Raleigh has ever seen? I'm still not over the fact that you left us for the east coast but I’m so glad that I have a sis-in-law who is cool enough to miss. Justin and I will be patiently waiting for your move back to Austin and in the meantime, will cherish your sweet cards and hilarious dog videos. I can't wait for the many adventures that sister(in-law)hood will bring us in the future!
Groomsman
David "Ray" Little, you were when I met Lainey, and we shared many a conversation about the cute girl with freckles at camp. We worked at Austin Sunshine Camp together, and got our shit together (largely) at the same time. We made terrible roommates, but you've always made a great friend. You were there at the start of it all with your ridiculous beard, motorcycle, and hilarious alter-ego and we're stoked that you'll be there for this next big moment. I expect you'll have some obscene toast citing the pitter-patter of tiny feet and a pack of menthols, with that wonderful southern charm.
Bridesmaid
The girl who was there when it all began at Austin Sunshine Camps: The best board game companion with the worst poker face, the most thoughtful gift-giver who actually remembers what you say you want, and the cook with culinary skills that rival the best of 'em (sorry Justin, her crab cakes were the bomb). My kindred spirit who loves to talk for hours about anything and everything from social work, to relationships, to politics, to the meaning of life. I'm so excited and thankful to have you stand by my side on the big day!
Groomsman
Bennett, we are bros now. Literally, by the law, we are now brothers. I'm so glad to be joining the family and stoked that now as your brother, I can continue to harass you to visit Lainey and I. Especially because Lainey and I finally have a guest bedroom so there's literally no excuse for you not to visit. In fact, as I write this I'm going to text and see about getting you to come chill because I always enjoy our funny conversations and your company. Also when you annoy Lainey, it's hilarious! Most importantly, I've been training Lainey to kick your butt in Mario Kart- she's ready and I want to see my hard work and investment pay off.
Officiant
A few words to describe Dr. Vidrine: Charming, suave, handsome...most importantly for this event: Ordained (soon). In all seriousness Beau, you have played such a huge role in Justin's life and immediately felt like a long-time close friend to Lainey. We both value your open-minded look at the world and life and are so happy we convinced you to officiate our wedding! (Justin promises pre-ceremony cigars and life talks to calm both of y'all's nerves).
Dog
WATO KUNNNNNNN!!!!! Our derpy, friendly, charming, bubba of a pup. He's not in the wedding but obviously deserves some recognition. like Cherry Blossoms Anger with him is short-lived But Happiness Lasts A Haiku by Justin McCance