Kaitlynn & Matthew
Wedding Party
Eva Elz
Maid of Honor
Kate and Eva met after Matt's band played a show one night. They chatted all night, and were besties in no time. Eva and Kate, unfortunately, haven't had the luxury of living in the same place at the same time at length, but their friendship has proved to cross any distance. These two will stay up until all hours of the night catching up, and giggling enough to count as a day at the gym. Fun Fact: Eva is a metal smith and made Kate's engagement ring!
Michael Stacks
Best Man
Mike is Matt's big brother and from their grueling wrestling matches to family vaycays growing up, these two have always been attached at the hip. Although they are 200 miles away from each other, through their love for sports, wrestling, and of course having a few cocktails they have remained best friends! "Very proud bestman!!" - Mike
Breanne Manata
Matron of Honor
Bre is Kate's older sister, and what Kate would call her "Twinnie". These two have always had a bond more like twins even with 6 years separating them. They love bigger, and laugh harder than anyone around when they are together- look out if you add Donna and Grandma Martha to the mix, these ladies will be silent laughing 'till they cry.
Steve Stacks
Groomsman
Steve is Matt's Dad and one of his best friends. Steve has been there from the beginning for Matt and has shown up in more ways than Matt can count. From nights at home with board games, to games of poker in Vegas- these two know how to have a great time together. You will find these two talking about everything from music to sports and anything in between over a beer. Steve has enthusiastically welcomed Kate into their family and has been a pillar of support in Matt and Kate's relationship. They are honored to have him stand up in their Wedding Party.
Micaelina Ritschl
Bridesmaid
Micaelina and Kate met through friends, and soon after, became roommates. During their time living together they became thick as thieves. There are not many friends in life who can say nothing AND everything to each other with just a look, but this is them. They built their friendship during very pivotal years in their lives, and it was built to last.
Matty Weaver
Groomsman
Matty and Matt first met at a house show in Lansing in June of 2011 and have been partying ever since. If you see one of them dancing in the crowd at a show, look out, because the other one is probably crowd surfing right above you. They’re chosen family, through the good times and the bad, always there for one another when things are tough, in whatever state they find themselves in.
Nikki Suarez
Bridesmaid
Nikki's husband Justin and Matt have been friends for years, which is exactly how long Kate felt like she had known Nikki when they met for the first time. A bond that started over their shared love of dogs, turned quickly into deep and cherished friendship. These two can pick up right where they left off every time they see each other. Nikki has become such an important friend and sounding board to Kate over the years!
Justin Suarez
Groomsman
Matt and Justin met back in the days of Bong Manor-after-show-hang-outs, talking about their love of music. Justin is hands-down one of the most loyal and funny people you will ever be lucky enough to know. Justin takes time for the people in his life to make them feel truly seen and heard; he has helped Matt out of many-a-funk, and is always down to talk about anything, for as long as you want. Matt and Kate consider Justin and Nikki two of their best friends, and they are so ecstatic to have them celebrate this giant step together with them!
Gabby Smith
Bridesmaid
Kate originally met Gabby through Matt, and then quickly formed a tight bond with each other. They have grown their friendship through love of music, snacks, memes (that only make sense to each other), and girl night adventures. You will often find them in the corner of a wine bar hyping each other up. Kate describes Gabby as a beacon of positivity and support. If you know Gabby, you KNOW how lucky you are to have her in your life!
Adam Schurman
Groomsman
Matt first met Adam while Adam was playing in a Pinhead Gunpowder cover band. Matt asked them about playing bass in a band that Alex and Matt were starting, which soon after became Bong Mountain. Matt values being able to talk to Adam about real life, and being able to make light of the bad parts together. Adam is able to turn any time into a good time. A truly valued friendship over the years, and for years to come.
Lisa Pavia
Bridesmaid
Lisa and Kate met while working together at what is now called Scorpion Hearts Club (best coffee in town). Together at the coffeehouse they quickly found out they were kindred spirits, and forever friends. Getting through a pandemic in the service industry was hard, but these two thrived with each other by their side. Lisa is empathy and encouragement embodied; she could win awards for most infectious laugh, and best listener... and also tearing up a dance floor. Kate and Lisa never have a shortage of things to talk about, and have regular hangouts just to let it all out to each other.
Kevin Nunn
Groomsman
Matt met Kevin shortly after he moved to Grand Rapids, at Mulligans -where Kevin was working at the time. Kevin and Matt quickly bonded over live music and mix tapes, which then led to playing music together and forming an incredibly tight friendship. Many years have added many great memories and plans for good times ahead. Matt and Kate love traveling with Kevin and his partner Alisha, they are all passionate about eating any new kind of food they can get their hands on and checking out any new spot they can find! Kevin has been a rock to Matt and Kate, both individually and as a couple. A friendship that will last a life-time!
Courtney Domijan
Bridesmaid
Courtney is Matt's cousin and essentially his little sister. When Kate met Courtney their friendship was immediate! A bond that is on the level sisters. At every family get-together you will find these two hugging for what seems like hours. Courtney is a rock to Kate and is constantly showing her encouragement and support through real conversations and belly laughs. She has been an endless source of creativity and fun while helping plan this wedding to her cousin. "No matter where, no matter what" is the motto for these two.
Rodney Minch
Groomsman
Rodney first met Matt in 2014 at the Grand Rapids Pinball League. Matt got hooked on competitive pinball and they regularly would meet up to play and have a few drinks outside of league nights. Most times it would turn into dollar games which always made the matches a little more interesting (and helped pay for that late night Taco Bell on the way home!) They have gone on numerous trips to pinball tournaments and many shows together. Rodney proudly brought Matt to his first Judas Priest concert, and has enjoyed many Bong Mountain shows over the years! Rodney adds, "Even though there is a good decade plus difference in age between Matt and I (I won’t say exactly how much but yes I’m fricken old) I’m happy to say we have become good friends and I value that friendship very much. Thank you Matt and Kaitlynn for making me a part of your special day. I wish you two the best of everything!"
Grace Buchta
Bridesmaid
Grace and Kate met around the same time that Matt and John became buds! Grace has an endlessly fun nature, she truly sees everyone around her and has no shortage of love to share with them. Her love of margaritas, spooky things, and her beautiful family and friends are just a few highlights to this amazing woman. She has been an immediate light and support in Matt and Kate's relationship and engagement. Even though they hadn't known each other long, Kate knew this would be an extremely valued friendship for a very long time to come.
John Buchta
Groomsman
Matt met John a couple of years ago after being introduced by their mutual friend (and groomsmen) Matty! John joined the group at a backyard BBQ after recently moving to Grand Rapids with his wife (Grace), and they immediately became an extremely important part of the group! Matt and John quickly bonded over music, comedy, and gaming (to name a few things). Matt and Kate are so thankful for the friendships they gained by John and Grace moving to town!
Donna Broadbooks
Mother of the Bride
Donna is Kate's Mom (best friend, rock, travel buddy, counselor...). Kate is who she is today because of her Mom and will never shy away from expressing that to anyone who will listen. Donna has been a constant source of support and excitement during Matt and Kate's relationship. Immediately letting Kate know that she knew this relationship was different than any other, and scooping Matt up into the family. Matt and Kate are not unaware how lucky they are to share such a special bond with each other's family. Catch Donna and Kate hugging, and laughing 'till they cry all night.
Linda Stacks
Mother of the Groom
When Matt describes his Mom, he always starts with saying she is someone you can always count on. She would absolutely do anything for her boys! Her relationship with Matt has continued to grow even stronger over the years. Matt has so much adoration for his hard-working and unconditionally loving Mom. Linda has taken Kate in as her own, and their bond is something Kate can't imagine not having in her life. Matt and Kate feel so much gratitude to have Linda as a cornerstone in their lives.
Allen Broadbooks
Father of the Bride
Allen is Kate's Dad. These two have a very special bond that ranges from cars and music to sci-fi and beer. With inside jokes galore, and a very unique sense of humor, these two consider themselves just as tight of friends as they are Father and Daughter. Allen is so happy to have Matt join the family, and so thankful Kate fell in love with someone who enjoys history, and gaming almost as much as he does. Allen and Kate will likely be in tears at some point when you see them, but don't worry- it will turn to laughter very quickly with these two.
Demi Manata
Ring Bearer
Demi is Kate's niece and soul sister. These two have the most cherished bond and friendship. There is no one that Matt and Kate would trust more with their rings than the incredible Demi Lou! They are so excited to have her play a special role in their big day!
Alex Ewigleben
Usher
Matt and Alex met at a Spraynard show in Lansing (with Bike Tuff). They became friends over a shared interest in all the same bands. They then quickly realized they could easily make music together, and that was the beginning of some very special musical projects (including Bong Mountain). Matt describes Alex as someone who no matter how long it's been, when you see them it as if no time has passed... and it is always a good time. Alex has a sincere and genuine care for their friends and family, and is definitely a cherished friend to Matt and Kate.
Chris Lidstone
Usher
Matt first met Chris while attending Cain Marko shows, and first hung out in Flint when Matt traveled to see them live- many shenanigans ensued, quickly followed by a very great friendship. Chris soon after joined Bong Mountain, making the band complete. Matt often talks about Chris' positivity, and how he is so good at being able to talk about anything with anyone. Chris has been a constant source of friendship and support to Matt and Kate throughout their relationship, and is the friend that will be able to pick up where they left off with at any point for the rest of their lives.
Silas Manata
Flower Child
Silas is Kate's nephew and from his first day in the world to his now almost Jr. year of high school (!!!) Kate has considered him one of her best buds. Matt and Kate are so thankful to have Si-Guy be a part of this day with them, and can't wait to see what he does in his life ahead!
Jack Manata
Flower Child
Jack is Kate's nephew. He has always been and will always be someone with a huge heart, (and great taste in music). Kate and Matt got to take Jack to his very first ska show, and now they encourage each other to keep growing their music catalogs. He is wild, hilarious, and wise- Matt and Kate are honored to have Jack-Guy as a part of their big day!
Darryl Arning
Officiant
Darryl is one of the sweetest, funniest, wittiest and wisest people you will ever meet. Matt and Kate are beyond honored to have Darryl involved in such a special way for their wedding. They could not think of anyone more loving, accepting, or selfless to help solidify this next step in their relationship. Matt and Kate are forever grateful for the friendship they have with Darryl!