Alex & Shaina
Wedding Party
Danielle Ducklow
Maid of Honor
Shaina’s older sister by two years and her lifelong best friend. Growing up, they were great at getting on each other's nerves, but Shaina can’t imagine life without her. Danielle has been more than just a sister, she’s been a confidant, a travel partner, a golf coach, and a constant source of love and support for Shaina. As Shaina looks forward to one of the most important days of her life, she is beyond grateful and excited to have Danielle standing beside her as her Maid of Honor.
Blake Smola
Best Man
Alex and Blake first crossed paths as kids through sports and quickly became inseparable friends. Over the years, Blake has been a constant presence in Alex and Shaina’s lives, once dubbed the “third wheel” but always welcomed with open arms. With a laid-back attitude and an infectious sense of fun, Blake is the kind of friend who never turns down an adventure and brings good times wherever he goes!
Tianna Platt
Bridesmaid
Shaina and Tianna met through Alex and Tianna's Husband, Eric, shortly after Shaina started dating Alex. From the moment they met, an undeniable bond formed, as if they'd known each other forever. Together, they’ve shared countless memories, adventurous vacations, dinner dates, nights out on the town, and so many other fun activities, including golf and bowling leagues.
Tj Bramlett
Groomsman
Alex and TJ first connected at UW-La Crosse during their college years. After one unforgettable night of drinks and laughter, their friendship blossomed, leading to many more fun-filled days together. As roommates in their later years of college and through the early days of their careers, they shared countless memories—whether it was bonding over sports, late nights out on the town, or exchanging witty banter on video games.
Jordyn Shavlik
Bridesmaid
Shaina and Jordyn's friendship began in preschool, and they've been inseparable ever since! From being on the dance team together in middle and high school to practically living at each other’s houses, they shared endless adventures growing up. Their bond was so strong that everyone they met assumed they were sisters. To this day, they love to do anything and everything together!
John Keefe
Groomsman
One of Alex’s longest friendships is with John, who he met at a young age through sports. From childhood days spent at each other’s houses to countless hours on the golf course, Alex and John’s bond grew to great friends forever through friendly competition.
Katie Loertscher
Bridesmaid
Shaina and Katie met through Alex and Katie's husband, Cole. They quickly became close friends after discovering how similar their personalities and interests are, making every moment together full of laughter and fun. Whether they’re sharing new experiences or simply enjoying each other’s company, there’s truly never a dull moment when they’re together!
Cole Loertscher
Groomsman
Another of Alex’s longest and closest friendships is with Cole, who has been by his side through nearly every chapter of life. From childhood sports to college roommates, Alex and Cole have done it all together. Their shared interests and personalities forged an inseparable bond, one built on mutual understanding and laughter. Cole has a knack for making Alex laugh and ensures every moment spent together is filled with fun and good times.
Paige Borreson
Bridesmaid
Shaina and Paige first met in high school, but it was during their college years, when they roomed together, that their unbreakable bond truly blossomed. From college basement parties to country concerts and unforgettable trips, they became inseparable. They supported each other through every challenge and new adventure, including Paige’s move to Charleston. Now, Shaina cherishes visiting Paige and exploring her new home, creating new memories together that only deepen their friendship.
Colton Langiewicz
Groomsman
Although Alex and Colton had known each other for years, it wasn’t until Colton moved to Eau Claire to work with Alex that their friendship truly blossomed. Through golf and days spent at Lake Holcombe, their bond grew stronger. Since the move, the two became golf partners, enjoying time on the course and making memories together. Their shared love for the game, along with days at the lake, has become a cherished part of their friendship.
Lorance Uwinaza
Bridesmaid
Shaina and Lorance’s friendship began at the UWEC Surplus Store, where they worked together in college, and they’ve been besties ever since. Lorance brings the party to everything they do, making even the simplest moments unforgettable. Through laughter, shared memories, and unwavering support, their bond has grown into the friendship they have today.
Chris Hierlmeier
Groomsman
Living across the country, Chris, Alex’s half-brother, and Alex don’t get to see each other as often as they’d like, but they make the most of the few times a year they get to spend together. Every visit is filled with new memories, and Alex always looks forward to their next time together, knowing it will be as memorable as the last.
Caitlin Cossette
Bridesmaid
Shaina and Catie’s friendship began in elementary school, introduced by Shaina’s stepsister, Ashley. From the start, they formed a special bond, spending countless nights at each other’s houses and growing up side by side. Whether it was camping with Catie's parents, singing their hearts out at concerts, or dinner dates, their time together has been filled with unforgettable memories.
Ben Hierlmeier
Groomsman
Alex has always looked up to his middle brother, Ben. From being the annoying little brother during their childhood to now cherishing every moment they spend together, their bond has only grown stronger. Both moved to Eau Claire around the same time, and Alex is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to spend more time with Ben and watch his niece and nephew grow.
Gina Hierlmeier
Bridesmaid
Gina is not only Shaina's soon-to-be sister-in-law but also a dear friend. Since both Alex and Shaina, as well as Ben and Gina, moved to Eau Claire, they’ve cherished countless special moments together. From dinner dates and rounds of golf to Packer games and relaxing weekends at the cabin, their time spent together has only strengthened their bond. Alex and Shaina also cherish their role as aunt and uncle to Ben and Gina’s little ones, Hudson and Luella, enjoying every moment spent with them.
Sam Hierlmeier
Groomsman
As the youngest in the family for most of his childhood, Alex never expected to hear the news that he’d have a baby brother, Sam, at the age of 12. Sam quickly became a blessing in Alex’s life. Alex loved coaching Sam and playing sports with him, and now he enjoys watching him excel in high school sports. It's been a joy for Alex to see Sam mature into the young man he is today.
Samantha Downs
Personal Attendant
Shaina and Samantha started out as coworkers, but it didn’t take long for a true friendship to blossom. From the beginning, it felt like they’d known each other forever. Over time, Samantha became one of Shaina’s close friends, someone she couldn’t imagine life, or her wedding day without. Her kindness, support, and friendship mean the world, and Shaina is so honored to have her as her personal attendant.
Eric Platt
Usher
Eric and Alex became close friends later in life when Alex moved to Eau Claire. Eric and his wife, Tianna, were extremely welcoming and made transitioning to a new town easy. Since then, the couple has become wonderful friends to both Alex and Shaina, and they’ve even become vacation partners. Eric is the kind of friend who always brings the guys together and keeps friendships strong and meaningful.
Dan Crass
Officiant
Dan, Alex’s uncle, holds a special place in both Alex and Shaina’s hearts. Dan has been a steadfast source of support in Alex and Shaina’s relationship and a great role model for them. Alex and Shaina couldn’t ask for anyone better to take on this special role. His friendly personality is contagious, and his outgoing attitude makes him a pleasure to be around. Dan is a true inspiration, not only in the way he carries himself but also in how he treats everyone with respect. He is admired by all who know him.
Ryan Gilles
Usher
Ryan has always been the life of the party. With dance moves like his, he’s sure to draw a crowd! Whenever Alex knows Ryan will be there, he can count on a good time. After college, Alex and Ryan lived together and built an amazing friendship that has only grown stronger over the years.