Becoming Burrus
Wedding Party
Heather Peters
Maid of Honor
Heather is Sam's younger sister. Even though Sam wasn't pleased when Heather was born (goodbye only child), and even though Heather may have thrown a hammer at her head when they were younger (just sister things), she can't imagine life without her now! Heather is one of her absolute biggest cheerleaders in life. She was drug along to each of Sam's extracurriculars as she went through school and to this day still shows up for her in every way imaginable. One of Heather's favorite places to be is in the pool, so she must really love Sam to agree to be in her wedding when she could be in the water soaking up the sun!
Amanda Hall
Matron of Honor
Amanda and Sam have been inseparable for 12 years! She was Sam's roommate for 8 years after graduating SFA together (maybe we add their freshman year of college when Amanda would frequently stay in Sam's dorm). She has been Sam's platonic, co-dependent, other half ever since they met at Jack Camp in 2012. They have been there for each other in ways that no blurb could ever tell. Fun fact about Amanda: she's marrying the same man twice! (She and her husband had a small, intimate wedding in 2023 and will be celebrating with extended loved ones in October of 2024)
Carmen Ishmael
Bridesmaid
Carmen is one of Sam's older cousins (they even share a birth month!). Being cousins, these two have countless memories together, most of which include dancing. Carmen is the one who taught Sam how to two-step. She's also the reason Sam entered the talent show in 6th grade performing, you guessed it, a dance that Carmen had also taught her. In case you couldn't guess, these ladies love to dance! One thing's for sure, Carmen will be the first on the dance floor! Fun fact: Sam wrote SEVERAL books in school about Carmen, so it's safe to say she's one of her favorite people.
Felicia Adams
Bridesmaid
Felicia and Sam first met at Parnell Elementary (the school they both worked at). They would have never imagined the friendship that would bloom from working together in the same classroom. Felicia was one of the first people to know about Sam and Cole meeting! After each Wednesday date, they would talk and talk and talk about how the date went and how Sam's feelings were continuing to grow. Felicia was also one of the first people to know that Sam was falling in love with Cole. One day, Sam looked at Felicia and said, "You know if I marry this boy you'll be in the wedding someday, right?" Fast forward almost 3 years later and she's doing just that!
Canyon Burrus
Best Mate
Canyon is Cole's youngest sibling (Surprise! 10 years after the triplets their family was finally completed). Being the youngest child and grandchild, they quickly fell into the "baby of the family" role making Cole responsible to help their dad with yard work. Even still, Cole couldn't imagine what life would be like without them. Canyon, also lovingly referred to as Goog, spends most of their free time gaming or with their partner Luna. Cole is glad to have Canyon as the best Player 2 by his side on his wedding day!
Kelsey Burrus
Groomswoman
Kelsey is the last but not the least of the Burrus triplets! Always the take charge sister, she is the person you want when planning everything and has a flair for organizing the best trips and events possible. She is the friend you want in your corner, always ready to fight for those she loves. Keep in mind, if her mouth doesn't tell you how she's feeling, her face definitely will! Kelsey and Cole went to the University of North Texas together helping each other stay focused and grounded for their time in Denton! Always supportive, Kelsey wants to make everything the best it could be which makes her one of the best people to have standing by Cole's side!
Riley Burrus
Groomswoman
Riley is by far one of the most artistically talented people Cole knows! She is absolutely the most artistic of the family. Riley could always be found painting or drawing throughout her school life which led to her earning a large scholarship from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design where she met her now husband, Carl. She is always kind and caring above all else and is one of the best hosts you could ever know! Riley was, and is, always there to lend a helping hand or give everyone a good laugh!
Carl Thompson
Groomsman
Carl is Cole's brother-in-law (Riley is his wife). They have known each other for over 10 years. Carl will always be in your corner, unless you're playing on opposite teams for a board game. But don't let that fool you! He can introduce you to some of the most unique and fun games out there. Being with Carl is always a blast which is why Cole is glad to have him in his family and by his side! Be sure to catch up with Carl about his extensive knowledge of comic books, cartoons, anime, and more in his field of animation appraisal!
Esther Trammell
Flower Girl
Esther is the daughter of Andrea and Christian Trammell. Like any 1.5 year old in 2024, she has two loves, Ms. Rachel and Bluey! She is a very independent toddler, so don't bother offering her any help. She will proudly let you know "I did it" when she does exactly what she sets out to do. (Per her parents' request, please refrain from posting any photos that contain her face)
Barrett Smith
Ring Bearer
Barrett is the son of Marlee and Reid Smith. In his short 2.5 years of life, he has visited more state and national parks than most adults have. Barrett's best friend is absolutely his "Poppy" (grandpa) or their family dog, Maisel. Even though he may be shy when he first meets you, he will quickly light up the room with his sweet smile. If you want to get in good with him, ask for a high five or talk about dinosaurs. Fun fact! Barrett shares a birthday with Sam!
Reid Smith
Officiant
Reid was Sam's "work husband" for the seven years they taught together in Jasper. When Sam first started dating Cole, Reid was one of the first people she wanted him to meet. She knew Reid would tell her straight without being harsh how he felt about Cole. The two men quickly bonded over their love of football and PlayStations. Reid and his wife Marlee are two of the kindest people you could meet and are amazing to have by your side!