Alyda N’Kole & Bradley
The Council of Allies
Alyda N’Kole Walton
Rebel Leader
I’ve always believed that love should feel like home—a place where you’re safe, understood, and truly yourself. But my journey to this moment hasn’t been the easiest. Losing my mom at a young age shaped so much of who I am. It taught me resilience, independence, and the value of cherishing the people we love while we have them. Along the way, I kissed a lot of frogs, hoping to find my prince. I had my heart broken, made mistakes, and wondered if real love—the kind that’s steady, challenging, and unwavering—was even out there for me. And then, there was Bradley. From the start, he wasn’t just another chapter in my story—he became the plot twist I never saw coming. He challenges me every single day, pushing me to be stronger, kinder, and more patient. But what means the most is that he accepts me, completely. My past mistakes, my flaws, the moments I wish I could erase—none of it ever made him hesitate. To him, I am enough, just as I am. As our wedding day approaches, I’m not just stepping toward the love of my life, but toward a future where I know I’m loved, challenged, and cherished—just as I am, and always will be.
Roxanna Gomez
Guiding Force of the Bride
Today I, Aunt Jennifer, am speaking as a stand-in for Alyda’s mother. I am the voice for Roxanna. I have never felt more honored than the moment Alyda asked me to do this for her. The best way to start Is a good ol’ Facebook stalking to find Roxanna’s own words about her precious daughter: “MY PROMISE TO MY CHILD: I will stalk you, freak out on you, lecture you, drive you crazy, be your worst nightmare, embarrass you in front of your friends, hunt you down like a bloodhound…because I LOVE YOU!! When you understand that, I will know you are a responsible adult. You will never find someone who loves you, cares about you, and worries about you more than your Mom! I love you Kole!” “You are the most amazing person!! I am so proud of all your accomplishments! You are not only my daughter but my best friend!!! I love you!!!” Alyda, I hope you know that every action Roxanna took in her life as your mother was to protect you, create you, and release you into an unforgiving world. When a strike is made against you, and you barely flinch, it is your mother surrounding you in her love, knowledge, and strength. Her love and protection for you will never falter, and you will feel it wrapped around you all your life in the arms of your family’s hugs, the smile of admiration from Bradley, and in the eyes of your children. I love you, Babygirl.
William Walton
Grand Moff Walton
I’m not one for words- that’s my little sister- but I’ll give it a go. I’m William Walton, the proud father of Alyda. It has been an absolute joy watching her grow into the incredible, strong, intelligent (and yes, sometimes hard-headed) person she is today, and now, as she and Bradley begin this new chapter together, my heart couldn't be happier. When the universe brings together two people who share a love for magical worlds and galaxies far, far away, you know it's a match written in the stars. Alyda and Bradley's story is one where two paths aligned to create something truly special. Bradley complements Alyda perfectly with his kindness and thoughtful nature. Together, they've built a relationship founded on mutual respect, shared interests, and genuine love for one another. Their shared passion for Star Wars and Harry Potter isn't just about favorite movies or books—it's about appreciating stories of courage, friendship, and the triumph of good over evil. On May 3, 2024, Bradley asked Alyda to embark on their greatest adventure yet, and she said yes! I am so excited to celebrate this special day with all of you—family, friends, and loved ones. Thank you for being part of this journey and making these moments even more meaningful! May the Force be with them, and may their love story be even more magical than anything found at Hogwarts.
Jessica Mason
Commander of the Rebel Forces
What can I say about N’Kole? She’s not just my sister; she’s my best friend, my partner in crime, and the person I turn to for everything. Growing up together, we shared it all—from inside jokes and childhood secrets to the many (sometimes ridiculous) fights. We’ve been through so much, both the happiest moments and the hardest times. Through it all, N’Kole has been one of my biggest supporters, always there with love, laughter, and the occasional sarcastic comment to lighten the mood. N’Kole is the kind of person who lights up every room she enters. Her heart is as big as her smile, and she’s one of the most compassionate, loyal, and genuine people I know. She’s taught me so much about what it means to be selfless, strong, and caring. I couldn’t imagine standing by anyone else’s side on this special day. I’m beyond excited to be part of this celebration, and I’m so proud of the beautiful woman N’Kole has become. I know that she and Bradley will create a lifetime of incredible memories together.
Brandon Hodges
Rebel Fighter
If you know my sister, you know she’s not just an incredible person—she’s also the best partner-in-crime a brother could ask for. We’ve spent years perfecting our shared, slightly unhinged sense of humor, which mostly consists of quoting Family Guy and American Dad at completely inappropriate moments. If you’ve ever caught us muttering, “What really grinds my gears…” or dramatically whispering “Ricky Spanish” like Roger, now you know why. But beyond our mutual love of nonsense, we also share something a little more sentimental—our love for Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium. There’s a quote from the movie that I think fits perfectly: “Your life is an occasion. Rise to it.” And that’s exactly what my sister has always done. She’s been the kind of big sister who lifts people up, who finds joy in the little things, and who isn’t afraid to be goofy and unapologetically herself. Seeing her this happy today is everything, and I have no doubt that she and Bradley will build a life full of love, laughter, and just the right amount of chaos. Wishing them a lifetime of happiness—and may their marriage be stronger than Roger’s disguise game and more enduring than Stewie’s plans for world domination.
Emma Mason
Rebel Fighters
Hey everyone! My name is Emma, and I’m Nkole’s niece. Here’s my bio! Nkole supports me in everything I do, no matter what, and pushes me to believe in myself even when I doubt. She’s always there for me during tough times and is the person I look up to the most. She never fails to put a smile on my face, show up for me and my siblings, or remind me that I am enough. I’m so happy you found someone who is the perfect fit for you. Bradley is the missing piece to your puzzle, and he will always be my favorite! He’s the luckiest guy to have such an amazing, beautiful woman as his wife. Your heart is full of joy and gold, and every moment with you is precious. You make me laugh like no other, and I’m so blessed to call you my forever best friend. Through my first heartbreak, the tears I cried, and the pain I felt, you were by my side. I also love that you’re a teacher because you actually keep up with trends—you’re definitely not lame like some people! And I’ll never forget how you supported me through my “emo phase” that lasted a whole year. You light up every room you walk into, and all I have for you is love. Words can’t describe how much you mean to me. God knew I needed someone like you in my life. Roxanna has been waiting for this day, and it’s finally here—with the perfect guy.
Hannah Hodges
Rebel Fighter
Hey everyone! My name is Hannah, and I’ve been blessed to know N’Kole for 15 years now! In 2009, I started dating N’Kole’s cousin, Brandon, and even though we were just kids, N’Kole treated me like family from the very beginning. Over the years, we’ve been able to watch each other grow, learn, and cheer one another on—from me watching her walk the stage at her graduation, to her being there for the birth of Brandon’s and my children, where she’s been the best aunt to them! I’m so grateful to add this wedding to the list of wonderful moments I’ve been able to be a part of in her life, and I can’t wait to celebrate this special day with her!
Dani Copeland
Rebel Fighter
Hi yall! My name is Dani. Alyda and I have been friends for 10 years. We met at Texas Tech University through our Kappa Delta sorority and have been inseparable ever since. Throughout those 10 years we have grown up together and experienced memorable college adventures, moving apart from each other but still making memories and visiting each other in different states, celebrating each other’s engagements, and now being bridesmaids in each other’s weddings. 10 years of friendship has brought all kinds of experiences that have brought the two of us close together and our bond is a sister bond - one that will never change!
Jamie Gonzales Alsguth
Rebel Fighter
I met Alyda in 2012 when we both pledged KD at Texas Tech. Wreck ‘Em! When not walking my dog or hanging out with my husband, you can catch me laying on the couch watching housewives. I’m a Texan expat living in Michigan, work in tax (but don’t know how to do my own taxes), and love the San Antonio Spurs. But in all seriousness, Alyda has been the most incredible friend over the years. I love how we can reconnect after months apart and it’s like we saw each other yesterday. I’m so happy she’s met Bradley, an amazing partner who only amplifies her sparkle. Cheers to a fun time in Houston!
Skylar Kund
Rebel Fighter
I’ve known Bradley my whole life—he’s family—so when Alyda came into the picture, I was so excited when it was immediately clear that he had found his perfect match! I was even lucky enough to witness their engagement and see their love story come full circle. Bradley and I have shared so many adventures over the years with our families. From hiking to road trips and everything in between, and now it’s even better because there’s a built in bestie with every adventure. Alyda became a dear friend so quickly, and I’m beyond grateful for the belly laughs, deep life talks, and everything in between. Whether we’re bonding over Star Wars (shoutout to Kylo Ren) or diving into horror movies, she’s the kind of person you just click with. Bradley and Alyda are truly something special, and I can’t wait to stand by their side as they start this next adventure together!
Elise Dooley
Rebel Fighter
Hello! My name is Elise, and I met N'Kole through a mutual friend while we were looking for a third roommate back in 2016. It didn’t take long for us to realize how perfectly we clicked. Over the next three years, we lived together, creating countless memories and sharing many laughs — whether we were throwing it back to old-school jams, binge-watching Survivor for hours, or “cooking” together (let’s be real, she’d make amazing dishes and I’d try to help just to get a plate of her mom’s potatoes). As teachers and coaches, we celebrated little victories, vented after long days, and supported each other through it all. But beyond all the fun moments, it’s her kind heart, infectious laugh, and continuous support that have kept us such close friends. N’Kole is one of the most genuine, incredible people I know, and I’m truly honored to stand by her side as she marries Bradley and begins this new chapter of her life.
Tennie Daniel
Rebel Fighter
Growing up, N’Kole wasn’t just my cousin; she was like my big sister, my best friend, and my twin all in one. From trips to Galveston and sharing secrets to going out and doing fun things together, we’ve always shared an amazing bond that goes beyond family. One of my favorite memories is when I made her ride the water log ride 4 times in a row and show up to dinner drenched in water. What brings a smile to my face every day is seeing my beautiful cousin find love and happiness with Bradley. It makes me beyond happy to celebrate this special moment with my two favorite people. While she may be starting a new chapter in life, she will always be my other half.
Bradley Gneiting
Jedi Master
Hello everyone! I am Bradley, the groom of this event. We are looking forward to hosting everyone down in Houston for our wedding! I am overjoyed to be sharing this moment with our closest friends and family. This event will be the joining of not only Alyda N’Kole and I’s lives, but the intertwining of all those who shaped us into the people we are today. I am excited to take the next step in my life journey with such a loving, compassionate, and intelligent woman. Alyda and I’s journey has been one of fun, adventure, and challenging each other each day, whether it be in my Red Sox playing her Yankees or Texas Tech vs. Rice in athletics, our healthy rivalries make each day entertaining and unpredictable. I am excited to make each day for the rest of my life just as adventurous and memorable. Looking forward to seeing everyone down at Rice for a throwback green out game!
Molly and Karl Gneiting
Darth Dad & Momdalorian
In a competitive family like ours bold statements are common. This one is for sure true-we have known Bradley the longest! We’ve beat him at many a game! One of our biggest “trophies”-we beat Bradley and Matthew at pickleball when they were D1 athletes together at Rice! And no-there isn’t time for a rematch (ever)! Playing games with Bradley is how Alyda joined the crew-she boldly proclaimed she needed a challenge at her Harry Potter trivia. She has learned to be a gracious loser (she still celebrates loudly and proudly when she wins and we embrace that too)! One of Bradley’s favorite mantras over the years has been “compete at a higher level!” He has done that on the baseball field and in life. He earned his bachelors and Masters at Rice and is thrilled to share one more victory on the field with his teammates by creating a new “team Gneiting” with Alyda! We have loved traveling with Bradley to places including Australia, Iceland and Costa Rica and this past summer Alyda joined our traveling party with Greg and Kristin (who will officiate on the big day), doing “pre-marital counseling” while on the drive from France, through Monaco and Monte Carlo enroute to Cinque Terra, Italy! That is competing at a higher level! Alyda’s learning! We are looking forward to celebrating Bradley and Alyda with our family and friends in Houston! Thanks for being a part of it! PS-Caitlyn keep plotting against Karl while listening to “Hey Mickey!”
Matt Canterino
Jedi Knight
Bradley transformed from a summer baseball teammate into a best friend almost immediately after we moved into our freshman dorm room at Rice. From studying last-minute for General Chemistry exams, to getting chewed out together by Rice Baseball’s famous Coach Graham, our experiences as college roommates solidified our friendship beyond words. My only complaint with Bradley is that he set an impossible standard for all ensuing roommates to stand up to. His attentiveness to those around him and gratitude for each deserving blessing that comes his way has left an indelible mark on me. Furthermore, I cannot be happier for him at this moment since his time spent with Alyda has only amplified these traits. I’m so happy to share a friendship with both of them, and that I get to be a part of their incredibly special day.
Tobin Kund
Jedi Apprentice
How’s it going y’all my name is Tobin. I’ve known Bradley for as long as I can remember, and he’s always been a great friend of mine, but also a big part of my family. I’m pretty sure we came out the womb playing wiffle ball together. He’s been a lifelong friend and a brother to me and I’m excited and happy to see him and Alyda take this next step in life! I’m forever grateful for our friendship and can’t wait to see everyone there for this memorable moment! It has been awesome to see him grow over the years and I can’t wait to see what’s next for these two.
Ethan Bellamy
Jedi Apprentice
I’ve literally known Bradley as long as I have been alive, he was just always there since I was born and I wouldn’t want it any other way! We have basically grown up as brothers and to see him now as we are both adults getting ready for the rest of our lives makes me so proud to be his friend. To go from playing in the yard together as toddlers, to playing a ton of rock band and lego Star Wars as kids, to seeing my cool older friend in high school, to cheering him on at Rice, to now being there as he get married! We have been through so much together and now I get to watch as he shares rest of his life with Alyda, and I couldn’t be happier for them!
Ronnie Sloan
Jedi Apprentice
Hello! My name is Ronnie Sloan and I’m lucky to say that Bradley is my oldest friend. After meeting in Ms. White’s 5th grade class we became fast friends, bonding over football, baseball, and multiple injuries, most of which happened during a game or competition of some kind at the Gneiting’s house. While I am a Texan by birth and at heart, I currently live with my wife Joella in Chicago, Illinois and love living steps away from Lake Michigan!
Justin Gneiting
Jedi Apprentice
Hello all, I am Bradley’s younger brother, Justin. I enjoy days playing league of legends and evenings playing campaign type games such as DnD. Bradley and I spent our childhood dressing up as power rangers (everywhere), having to do green bench with each other in the store when we got in trouble, and generally enjoying spending time being superhero’s or Pokémon or whatever else our imagination could come up with. I did enjoy making my own name for myself as we grew up though, as I did almost everything else that Bradley did not do (ran cross country, played lacrosse, played soccer, played video games, was the DM for my friends in our DnD games). We enjoyed many NewYears in Big Bear and playing Bunco with the crew at Carson Road as well. I’m very excited to be a part of his wedding and cannot wait to celebrate with everyone down in Houston!
Will Karp
Jedi Apprentice
Hi Everyone, I initially crossed paths with Brad in his last year of school at Rice. When I transferred in, I was joining the Accounting program blind to the difference between a debit and credit, but I was told one other baseball player would be in the program with me. Pretty much from that point, Brad and I were stuck together and running from class, to the weight room, to the field every day together and then studying to figure out how to catch up for the coming week. On a road trip to Birmingham, Brad changed my life forever by introducing me to the Matrix trilogy. Now, I live up in New Jersey, and have watched Brad establish our official pecking order of accounting prowess as he became a CPA in no time, while I remain in certification purgatory. Brad has played so many innings on this field, but I am so excited to be a part of his final “plate appearance” in May. Looking forward to seeing everyone in Houston!
Lauren Bellamy
Jedi Apprentice
Hi! I’m Lauren Bellamy, Bradley’s oldest friend and closest thing he has to a sister:) while on a plane ride from North Carolina to Texas both of our moms met while rocking us back and forth in rhe back of the plane. They immediately hit it off and found out that they were both moving from NC to Texas and living 5 min apart. Shortly after my mom invited the Gneitings over for thanksgiving and Karl said “Don’t invite us if you don’t want us to come…because we will come”. And so they were invited and they did indeed come. Fast forward 27 years later and we are still spending thanksgivings, Christmas’, and birthdays together! B is an amazing brother, friend, and one of the kindest people I know. His zest for life is contagious and I think he definitely found the perfect person that also mirrors those qualities along with pushing him to be better and encourage him to go deeper. Alyda and I quickly clicked and I knew these two were endgame. So excited to celebrate them on the 24th🤗 Cheers to yall!
Zach Esquivel
Jedi Apprentice
Zach and Brad were teammates, roommates, classmates, and all of the other mates (mostly) through their time together at Rice. Outside of baseball Brad and Zach could be found together at the pool table, in the commons studying for chemistry, playing frissbee golf on rainy days, or in front of the TV watching How I met Your Mother. Through their love for HIMYM they shared many a night talking about their love lifes, and how they were both searching to find "the one". Zach is beyond excited that Brad has beaten him to finding his very own Robin.
Caitlyn Wermuth
Jedi Apprentice
Bradley and I met as sophomores in high school and quickly became friends over our love of sports and board games. We spent a lot of time plotting to take down Bradley’s dad during our many game nights. I currently live in Georgia with my husband and our dog, who we treat like our child. I am looking forward to celebrating Bradley and Alyda with everyone in Houston!
