Wedding Party
Carmen Aguilar
Maid of Honor
Hi, I’m Carmen, and I’ve known Alva since Elementary School! Our friendship really hit its stride in middle school, when passing actual notes was peak communication (because cell phones weren’t a thing yet!). We spent hours on the phone after school and got in trouble more than once for tying up the landline. From learning how to use MySpace and Facebook to hyping each other up through every stage of life, we’ve truly grown up together. She’s smart, loyal, and the kind of friend everyone wishes they had. I’m beyond honored to be her Maid of Honor and to stand by her side on such a special day.
Rigo Romanillo
Best Man
I was playing soccer at a local meet up one day. I was just doing my thing. Rainbow flicking over peeps, busting out bicycle kicks, you know- the usual. Then suddenly, I heard a extremely manly, thundering voice say “I’M OPEN MI-MI-MI-JA”. The stutter was enticing. I had to look up. And there he he was, the Beardless Mexican Thor. The God of Truenos. His luscious, brown hair flowing in the wind. I was so mesmerized that I lost the ball, and without a word the man turned around and sprinted to get the ball back. I knew I had to be this man’s friend at all cost. That day our friendship was solidified. And I never looked back.
Rosa Gonzalez
Bridesmaid
I met the bride when I was 4 years old... technically against our mom's will. My dad decided it was time I had a little sister, and let's just say-he moved faster than mom's birth control plans. By the time she went to the doctor pa' que le dieran algo, boom... she was already pregnant. So here we are-decades later-and I'm just a bridesmaid, but let's be real... I've been her hermana de honor since day one.
Ali Farhat
Groomsman
Before my body collapsed, I met this crazy-looking, long-haired dude while playing football in California. Little did I know that I would soon be touched inappropriately and constantly harassed by him on the pitch for the rest of my football career. All that touching has surely made us very close (sorry, Alva), and I hope we can keep it going. My brother from another mother! I am glad that our paths crossed, and I am excited for you both! Forever your third wheel, Ali.
Roxanna Hinojosa
Bridesmaid
Hello, my name is Roxanna—or “Wheels” to those who (unfortunately) know that story lol. I am a coworker-to-friend-pipeline success story. Alva and I bestied so hard, I asked her to be my sponsor for my sacraments. I first met Alva about 9 years ago at VVCH. She took me under her wing—both professionally at work and in our personal lives. It’s hard to keep friendships going after one leaves the common workplace, but not for us. Alva is like the big sister I always wanted—and needed. I don’t know what my life would’ve been like if I hadn’t had her shoulder to lean on during my troublesome 20s. Often my voice of reason, she has taught me so much about myself and life in general. We’ve both grown so much, and I feel so blessed to be by her side as she embarks on this new journey with her soon-to-be husband, Erick. I wish them the absolute best and nothing but happiness.
Ryan Gerard
Groomsman
Erick and I met at the most logical surroundings for individuals such as us, the gym. He noticed me doing time under tension pull-ups and also my rosary which I wear always and then we spoke about Jesus and Mary. The rest as they say is history, made a brother for life.
Estela Gonzalez
Bridesmaid
As her little sister, I’ve had the honor of knowing the bride my whole life. From being her hair test dummy (burns, bleach, and choppy layers included) to sneaking into her room to “just look” at her hamster and ending up with a bite mark, I’ve played many roles in the Alva Show. She’s always been independent, witty, and someone I admired enough to—much to her horror—write a whole essay about in middle school. She’s been my guide, my role model, and the big sister who let me believe that brassy bleached bangs were peak fashion. I’m so happy to be able to share this big day with her.
Ruben Marquez
Groomsman
What can I say about my older brother? Growing up was a ride, to say the least. One of the funniest memories I have of Erick as a kid was when he got pooped on by a bird at the beach. As adults, it’s watching him do a chicharito while playing soccer and missing his mark. It’s been a great experience to watch him grow and become the man he is today.
Stefany Suarez-Escobar
Bridesmaid
Stefany is Alva’s soul sister—and Alva is hers. Not by blood, but by bond (and maybe shared playlists). They became best friends just three hours after meeting—because why waste time? What started as a casual hangout turned into 10+ years of deep chats, delicious bites, wild concerts, birthday chaos, baby showers, late-night heart-to-hearts, and the kind of laughter that makes your face hurt—and sometimes even pee yourself a little. They’ve been there for each other through love, heartbreak, and every episode in between—and if soul sisters were an official title, they’d have matching trophies by now.
Juan Marquez
Groomsman
Erick is my big brother; I’ve always looked up to him. Growing up, he was always nice to me. Seeing how other people treat him and speak highly of him makes it apparent that he’s a great person. Erick is someone I can confide in, knowing he has my best interests—whether it’s questions or advice, I can count on him. Erick has been a key figure in my faith journey. His knowledge and his selflessness in guiding not just me but other people to God speaks to the man he is. I’ll always be grateful to him. I was very much happy when he told me he was planning to marry Alva—I know he will be a great husband. I look forward to seeing Erick enter the next chapter in his life. I know that with his faith in God and his values, he will have a fruitful marriage, and I look forward to Erick and Alva having a happy life together.
Bethany Rios
Wedding Planner
Hi there! I’m thrilled to be part of this beautiful celebration as the wedding coordinator. I’ve been helping couples bring their dream weddings to life for several years now, and it’s truly a joy to be part of such meaningful moments. I met both the bride and groom at work, and we just clicked. From lunch breaks to buddy reads I am so thankful to have both of them! Although I’m pretty sure we should ban Erick from choosing our next reads. Fun facts: for some reason Erick and I always end up matching work outfit colors and Alva and I have the best “waiting room” laughs and conversations. They are two of the most genuine and thoughtful people I know. It’s an honor to support them on this journey and I can’t wait to see all the love and joy unfold on their special day! Praying for a lifetime of love for them! 🧡