Wedding Party

Ashira Macy

Bride

"Yev and I met back in 2015 at a karaoke night at Farrington's in Pleasant Hill. I had just ended a relationship and was ready to have some fun. Yev (who thought I was cute) approached me and asked if I had read any good books or seen any good movies lately. Not the smoothest pickup line for a girl who at the time had not read a book for fun in ages (college will do that to you) and barely watched any movies. I was there to sing and drink and be wild. His best friend, Kevin, was also at the bar and was talking Yev up, but ended up being too interesting himself, effectively failing at his 'wingman' job. Since I was uninterested in Yev romantically at the time (and because Yev is not the kind of person to take that personally), we all became friends instead. Kevin and I would hang out nearly every week at Farrington's, and became very close, and Yev would show up less frequently, so our friendship took a little longer to develop. In the years leading up to our relationship, Yev and I danced around one another, always friends, sometimes flirty. It wasn't until we began working together at Spectrum that we finally decided to give dating a try. After a few weeks of very flirty texts I finally asked what exactly we were doing and we decided to date, with the understanding that if it didn't work out we would still try to preserve our friendship. From September 3, 2021 to the present, Yev has been the best partner I could have ever asked for. I am so lucky to have him in my life."

Yevgeny Kopman

Groom

"When I first met Ashira I had no idea how important she would become to me, had I known I would've started our friendship off with something other than "Read any good books lately?". Thankfully in the end, it all a worked out. I count myself extremely lucky that I get to spend the rest of my life with someone as amazing as her. Here's to the start of a brand new journey together!"

Cynthia Prasad

Maid of Honor

"Ashira, I am so happy to have you in my life! Ever since fifth grade girl scouts, you've been one of my closest friends and I always look forward to seeing you. We don't get as much time together anymore, but I value every visit! A big congratulations to both of you guys, I am so excited for you in this next phase of your life together!!"

Kevin Schaller

Best Man

"Just remember to keep communication lines open, remember you’re on the same team, and find enjoyment in one another’s TV and movie choices (even if they’re sometimes questionable, YEVGENY). You’ll do just fine."

Jamie Lamerson

Bridesmaid

"Ashira! I love you! I know I am blessed for having you as one of my best friends. I am so happy for you. I wish you and your fiancee a long, happy, and nurturing marriage."

Sean Kopman

Groomsman

“Yevgeny and Ashira, I just wanted to tell you that life is like a river.”

Kristin Avila

Bridesmaid

"Ashira, I'm so glad that our middle school enemies-to-friends story turned out the way it did, and thankful for all our past and future Disneyland visits and musical theatre singalongs! All my love and congratulations to you and your husband to be!"

Mike Pick

Groomsman

"When I first met Yevgeny, it was on the hot asphalt of high school P.E. class. I don't remember what we gabbed about, but it was the start of a long friendship. Twenty years, a lot of movies, books and a heckuva lot of pizzas later, my bud Yev is getting married. Ashira and Yev go together wonderfully, and I can't wait to see where life takes them. Mazel Tov!"

Bri Watson

Bridesmaid

"Ashira, you have always been such an amazing friend - through Round Table hangouts, Doorstep Farmers markets, being neighbors, and every chapter since. Watching you grow into the incredible woman you are today has been an absolute gift, and I feel so lucky to call you one of my closest friends. I'm beyond happy for you both as you step into this beautiful next chapter, and I'm truly honored to be part of such a special day."

Samuel Scully

Groomsman

"I met Yev in 2007 at Diablo Valley College. We talked about many things. Our friendship has lasted many years and still going strong. I wish Yev and Ashira many years together like the friendship Yev and I have. Much love to both of you! Samuel"

Alice Schaller

Bridesmaid

"Ashira, you've been a wonderful friend to me over the years, and I'm so glad we had a chance to work together at Pizza Hut before I left. From bonding over Mass Effect to singing karaoke at Farrington's where we both met our husbands, I'm so thankful to have met you. I think one of the most important things to remember in marriage is that you are both on the same team. Even when you're arguing and upset, try to be kind. The storms are temporary and you'll get through them together."

Tom Main

Groomsman

"Yev, Ashira, your future together is bright and beautiful. May you both find happiness in each other!"

Sarah Orenduff

Bridesmaid

"Going from strangers singing karaoke together to acquaintances working together at Spectrum, to friends who fight dragons inside dungeons, I'm happy to have been a part of this journey and I'm excited to venture into the next journey ahead. Always remember in marriage, saving the last chicken nugget to share with your spouse just shows you truly care."

Andrew Irgens-Møller

Groomsman

"I've known Yevgeny for nearly 25 years; for context, when we met in 2001, the price of gas was $1.46, the first iPod was released and videos were just as likely to come out on VHS as DVD. In the quarter century that I've known him, Yevgeny hasn't changed much to me. While this may come off as negative, to me he has been reliably himself. He has kept the same energy and humor, and in a world that is always changing, it has been comforting to know that our friendship has remained a constant that I can turn to to remember the good times. I always thought he was very lucky. In middle school he won a PS2 in a game of bingo of all things, I'm pretty sure he got his PS3 the same way. Thusly, I think he continues to be very lucky in finding Ashira and I wish them the best."

Leor Macy

Bridesman

"We may not have always had the best relationship growing up, but you are without a doubt my best friend Ashira. I'm so proud of the woman you have become and no one deserves happiness more than you do."

Marie Ward

Officiant

"I have known Ashira for 8 years and Yevgeny for 3 years. It has been filled with D&D adventures and actual adventures. I have the honor to officiate their new adventure together. I was told at my wedding to 'never go to bed angry', but I learned from experience that sometimes it is ok to go to bed angry. Hit the pause button and return to the conversation after sleep with new eyes. Sleep deprivation is worse than being angry."

Brad Macy

Father of the Bride

"Ashira and Yevgeny, Congratulations on your engagement! I am so happy for both of you. You make a great couple. As far as words of wisdom, remember that communication is key to a good relationship. Don’t be afraid to share your feelings with your partner, and never go to bed angry. Give each other space, but be sure to stay close to the nest. A good balance of “me” time and “us” time is essential. I look forward to sharing your joys in the years ahead. With Love 'Dad'"

Gennadiy Kopman

Father of the Groom

"Love fuels it, respect holds it together, and health keeps it thriving - a strong marriage needs all three."

Aliza Abrams

Mother of the Bride

"No advice. Just lots of love for the both of you!"

Irina Kopman

Mother of the Groom

"Why make your own mistakes when there are so many perfectly good ones to learn from?"

Irene Abrams

The Matriarch

"Dear Ashira and Yevgeny: Always remember that the reason you are getting married is because you love each other. You admired characteristics in each other that are important to you: kindness, love of learning, joy, family , tradition. Love is really important.There will be times that you will face challenges and struggles, and you will have to resolve them together. But never forget what brought you together, and never go to bed angry. (My mother, your Grammy, told me that). I love you. Savta"

Ellen Williams

Stepmother of the Bride

"Dear Ashira and Yevgeny, Getting to know you both as a couple, I see many qualities in you both that contribute to a successful marriage. These words come to mind when I think about a strong relationship from my own experience. Being Honest, Open, and Willing (HOW) has become the bedrock of my marriage with Brad. We learned that we each have a vote and are willing to compromise. Treating one another with courtesy, kindness, and respect, and listening to each other with full attention is essential. Having “us” time and “separate” time also adds to the marriage. Being married will bring times when you don't always agree. Using the power of speaking your truth, practicing forgiveness, and being willing to apologize will help you through challenging times. Successfully using these skills will strengthen the bond you share and deepen your love for one another. Congratulations to you both as you begin your life journey together."

Autumn Orenduff

Flower Girl

Persephone Orenduff

Flower Girl

Damario Weiss

Ring Bearer

"Thank you Ashira, so much for allowing me to be a part in your life. I am so honored to be a part of this wedding and to continue watching you thrive and grow in your future."

Zuko

Dog of Honor

"Boof!" While we know it may cause some disappointment, Zuko will not be at the wedding. However, as Ashira's soul-dog, we felt that it was important that he be recognized here as Dog of Honor.