Sean Bendula
Amber Boyd
Sean Bendula
Amber Boyd
May 7, 2026
Our Story - The Short Version
In late February 2016, in the vibrant mountain town of Asheville, North Carolina, Sean first met Amber. Sean was a musician, songwriter in the area, and was well known for his folk songwriting and unique voice. Amber, with her bright smile and huge heart, was a hair stylist whose days were filled with color, conversation, and making people feel seen. Their worlds collided one ordinary evening at a local venue— it felt like the start of something inevitable. From that night on, they were inseparable. The early years were a beautiful blur of Asheville magic. They spent countless evenings chasing live music across the city, surrounded by a growing circle of friends who became family. Long conversations stretched into dawn—about dreams, fears, favorite songs, and the little things that made life worth living. After a year of dating, joy arrived in the most unexpected way: Amber was pregnant. They named their daughter Ophelia—from the Greek, meaning "to help." She was more than a child; she was a gentle turning point. The free-spirited lifestyle they'd once chased no longer fit quite the same. They were ready for something deeper, steadier, brighter. Ophelia became their blessing, the little light that transformed two into three. In 2018, the family packed up and moved to Tennessee, just an hour north of Asheville, settling into a new chapter with open hearts. The mountains gave way to rolling hills, but the love stayed the same—only it grew. Their home soon echoed with more paws and tails: two beloved dogs, Charlie and Mila, who filled the yard with play and the house with unconditional joy. Sean and Amber chose to homeschool Ophelia, pouring their days into lessons, laughter, and building a life rooted in togetherness. As the years unfolded, their faith deepened profoundly. They found a spiritual home at Grace Meadows and Revive Church in the Johnson City area, where community and worship became anchors. Together, Sean and Ophelia were baptized—a sacred moment of surrender and renewal. They now look back and see clearly: the love of Jesus has been the quiet thread holding everything together. Through every season—through music-filled nights in Asheville, through the gift of parenthood, through moves and changes and ordinary days—it's been faith, commitment, and grace that have kept them strong. These days, Sean and Amber are just living their best life up in the mountains with little Ophelia running around being her wild, curious self, while Charlie and Mila are always trotting along right behind them like the loyal sidekicks they are. What started as two people randomly crossing paths in a small mountain town turned into this whole beautiful thing—real love, a little family, and the kind of devotion that doesn't quit. They both know deep down that as long as they're walking side by side—with each other and with God—they're never really gonna be apart.
Schedule
Thursday, May 7, 2026
The Wedding Of Sean Bendula and Amber Boyd
4:00 pm - 10:00 pm
875 Edwina Bridgeport Rd, Newport, TN 37821
Formal attire- solid colors are kindly requested -
Children of immediate family are warmly welcome, we respectfully request this be an adult only event for all other guests. We kindly ask that you do not bring additional guests unless specifically noted on your invitation."
Travel
Hotel
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Newport S by IHG
Hotel
Hampton Inn Newport
Hotel
Best Western Newport Inn
Hotel
Hampton Inn Newport
House Or Rental
Recommended Lodging/ From Venue
Recommended lodging from Venue
Registry
Wedding Party
Dennis Mason
Groomsman
Dennis is one of those rare people who lights up both a room and the future—one conversation, one solar panel, and one act of genuine kindness at a time. Since 2019, when Sean and Dennis first teamed up in the solar industry, their connection has grown far beyond shared work projects. Dennis quickly became more than a colleague; he’s been a steady mentor, a trusted confidant, and a true friend who’s walked alongside Sean through challenges, triumphs, and everything in between. Their friendship, forged in long days under the sun and late-night discussions about renewable energy and life, has stood the test of time and only deepened with the years. Beyond his professional dedication, Dennis is a devoted family man at heart. He’s the proud father of three beautiful children who bring endless joy and energy to his life, and the loving husband to Stephanie Mason—a talented woman who also shares in the same solar journey with Sean and Dennis. Together, they build not just a career, but a legacy of hard work, love, and balance. Today, as Sean and Amber stand at the altar to begin their own forever, having Dennis by their side as a groomsman feels perfectly right. He’s the kind of friend who shows up, who lifts you up, and who reminds you what loyalty and heart truly look like. We’re so grateful for the wisdom, laughter, and unwavering support he’s given Sean—and we know he’ll continue to be that steady, bright presence for years to come.
Ryan Bendula
Groomsman
Ryan Bendula—Sean's brother, lifelong best friend, and the guy who's been right there from day one. Ryan has shared every chapter of Sean's life: the childhood adventures, the teenage mischief, the big dreams, the tough moments, and now this beautiful new beginning. He's watched Sean grow from a kid into the incredible man standing at the altar today, and through it all, their bond has only grown stronger. Ryan isn't just a brother—he's the constant, the confidant, the one who knows Sean better than almost anyone and loves him unconditionally. With his awesome sense of humor, Ryan brings the laughs wherever he goes. He's a total blast to be around—quick with a joke, always ready to lighten the mood, and never afraid to keep things fun and real. That playful energy makes him one of Ophelia's absolute favorite uncles; she lights up around him, and he has a special way of making her giggle and feel adored. Sean and Amber are over the moon to have Ryan standing beside them as a groomsman. Having him there isn't just about tradition—it's a heartfelt celebration of family, friendship, and the unbreakable connection that started long before any of this and will last long after. Ryan, thank you for being the brother who’s always had Sean's back, for the endless laughs, and for being part of this joy-filled day. Here’s to Ryan—the brother, the best friend, the favorite uncle, and the heart of so many great memories.
Ricky Leasure
Groomsman
Ricky Leasure—Sean's lifelong friend, the one who's been by his side since they were just kids picking up a basketball. Their friendship started around 8 or 9 years old, bonding over a shared love of the game that carried them all the way through high school. They played together on the same team, sweating it out in countless practices, games, and pickup sessions—chasing dreams on the court, celebrating wins, and learning from losses side by side. Those years weren't just about basketball; they built a brotherhood rooted in trust, competition, and pure fun. Ricky's family became a second home for Sean growing up. Summers were filled with hanging out, endless adventures, and lazy days that turned into more hoops. Winters meant trading the outdoors for the gym, where the echo of bouncing balls and laughter became the soundtrack of their youth. Through it all, Ricky was the constant—the friend who showed up, who pushed Sean to be better, and who made every moment feel like it mattered. Today, as Sean and Amber step into this new chapter, having Ricky stand with them as a groomsman is a beautiful full-circle moment. He's more than a friend who's known Sean forever; he's family in every sense that counts. Thank you, Ricky, for the decades of memories, the pickup games that never really ended, and for being the kind of friend who makes life richer just by being in it.
Will Yates
Best Man
Will Yates—Sean's lifelong friend, college roommate, and just a solid dude all around. They met and clicked right away, sharing three out of four college years as roommates at Chowan University. Their shared love of music turned ordinary dorm moments into something special, creating memories layered with lyrics and laughter. They also bonded over the pull of the ocean and the beach. Will, growing up in Ocean View, VA, brought that coastal ease and salt-air spirit, while Sean's family moved to the Outer Banks during those college years—making beach trips, waves, and sunsets a natural extension of their friendship. Those shores became their escape, a place to unwind, talk things out, and just be. After graduation, the friendship didn't fade. They lived near eachother in Richmond, VA, for a few years, keeping the connection strong through new chapters. To this day, they stay tight—catching sports games, cheering from the stands, and showing up for each other through every high and low life throws their way. Sean and Amber are thrilled to have Will standing as a groomsman today. He's not just a friend who's stuck around—he's the one who knows the stories behind the stories, who shares the rhythm of Sean's past, and who continues to be a steady, genuine presence in his present. Thank you, Will, for the music, the beaches, the late-night talks, and for being the kind of friend who makes every chapter better.
Lee Winter
Groomsman
Lee Winter—Sean's lifelong friend since middle school, bonded by a shared love for the Cleveland Browns and countless unforgettable moments. From watching Browns games together to kicking field goals in Lee's yard in Concord, Ohio, before kickoff, they created traditions that still bring smiles. In junior high, Sean would ride his moped over to Lee's house, and high school meant epic parties at the old Concord place—full of laughter, music, and stories that live on. Through it all, Lee has been a rock: encouraging, fiercely loyal, and always showing up with a big heart. He's the friend who lifts you up and stays steady no matter what. Sean and Amber are honored to have Lee as a groomsman today—a perfect tribute to decades of true friendship. Thank you, Lee, for the Sundays cheering for the Dawgs, the backyard kicks, the wild nights, and for being the loyal brother-in-arms Sean can always count on. Here’s to Lee—the Browns faithful, the Concord legend, and the big-hearted friend who's been there since the beginning.
Michael Rivers
Groomsman
Michael Rivers—aka Mikey—a huge influence and steadfast friend who's walked hand-in-hand with Sean through his music journey. Sharing a deep love of music and songwriting, Mikey and his wife Dawn have been constants in Sean's life, especially during their time living together on beautiful Hatteras Island, NC. Those years overflowed with amazing memories: hosting intimate open mic nights where raw talent and stories filled the air, playing gigs under island stars, and creating songs that captured the salt breeze and heartfelt moments. Mikey is a true family man with a huge heart and a loving spirit—always generous, encouraging, and ready to lift others up with his warmth and positivity. Sean and Amber are incredibly grateful to have Mikey standing as a groomsman today. He's not just a friend; he's a musical soulmate, a collaborator in creativity and life, and someone whose presence has made Sean's path richer and brighter. Thank you, Mikey, for the island nights, the shared chords, the open mics, and for being the big-hearted influence who's always been there.
Aaron Boyd
Groomsman
Aaron Boyd—Amber's brother, and now Sean's brother too—the heartfelt representative of Amber's family standing proudly among the groomsmen. Aaron has been a steady source of support not just for Sean, but for their entire relationship from the start. Always ready to lend a hand, offer advice, or simply be there when needed, he's shown up time and again with selflessness and care. With his huge heart, Aaron would drop everything to help anyone—no hesitation, no questions asked. That generous, kind spirit makes him the kind of person who makes the world warmer just by being in it. Sean wanted this day to honor not only his love for Amber but also the genuine friendship and brotherhood he's built with Aaron. Having him by his side as a groomsman is a beautiful way to celebrate that bond and welcome him fully into the family.
Bethany Stephens
Bridesmaid
Bethany and I met in the early 2000s while working at a hair salon under a...how should I word this... truly unforgettable boss. What started out as surviving chaos together and dodging hair clips left on a sink, quickly turned into a lifelong friendship, thanks to our shared humor and instant connection. We spent years side by side behind the chair until we both eventually moved away. Through all the seasons of life we have managed to keep our friendship alive and staying close through our much cherished annual girls trips that we really look forward to. She is my funny, fun, ultra-organized planner of the group-the one who keeps everything running smoothly while making sure we try new places, always laughing and having a great time. With almost 20 years of memories, I couldn't imagine this day without her by my side.
Katie Keciorius
Maid of Honor
Katie and I grew up in the same area but somehow didn't meet until she returned one summer after college during stepping out. We spotted each other across the room of The Rivermill. We started talking and by the end of the night we knew we had made a life long friend. We became pretty much inseparable and even lived together until she moved away to Colorado-a goodbye that was incredibly hard. My first and only cross country trip was to see her! During that chapter of life, we each welcomed daughters, I was first. She came to stay with us in Asheville during what ended up being an incredibly hard time and she helped in ways I will never forget. We share a deep love of music, countless nights of dancing into the morning, and conversations about anything and nothing that can last for hours. She is my fiercely loyal, endlessly supportive, friend for life.
Charmaine Thomas
Bridesmaid
Charmaine and I met in the early 2000s when she joined the team at Inside Out Salon and we immediately clicked as coworkers and friends. Although she was a little younger than me, I looked up to her while in awe of her drive, her talent for numbers, and her determination- all of which led her to accomplishing her dream of owning her own salon. After I moved away, I decided to happily make the two hour drive, as I trust her the most with my hair. She is part of the beloved annual girls trips, where we some how manage to talk the entire, usual 6 hour drive. Charmaine is easy going, always up for anything, my trusted advice giver and devils advocate, and the kind of friend who can pick up right where we left off no matter how much time passes. She's business savvy, a decorating extraordinaire, and one of those rare people who makes life easier and more fun by just being in it.
Heidi Rowell
Bridesmaid
Heidi entered my life at exactly the moment I needed her most—right before Ophelia arrived. In those final, whirlwind weeks of pregnancy, when everything felt new and a little overwhelming, she became one of the few other moms I knew in the area. A little older and so much wiser, she stepped into my world like a steady, calm presence amid the first-time motherhood preparations. From the very beginning, our friendship felt safe and easy. I could tell her anything—every doubt, every fear, every silly worry—and she never once judged me. She just listened, offered gentle insight when I asked, and reminded me that I wasn't alone in figuring it all out. She met our Chaddy, her boyfriend, not long after we met her, and he fit right in—kind, fun, and genuinely good-hearted, Our little crew felt complete. Over the years, some of my favorite memories are the times we spent visiting them. Whether it was a cozy weekend in West Virginia or Asheville ,or wherever they chose to put down roots next, those visits were always filled with laughter, deep talks, good food, and the kind of easy comfort that comes from true friendship. She's been my confidante through so much—motherhood's highs and lows, life's unexpected turns, and everything in between. Her wisdom, her open heart, and her unwavering acceptance have made her more than a friend; she's family. I'm grateful to have her standing with me on this day. She came at a special time, and she's stayed through every season since.
Allison Stokes
Bridesmaid
Al—the kind of friend who turns ordinary moments into lifelong stories you'll never get tired of telling. Our paths first crossed through mutual friends. One random night, I found myself at her house, and something just clicked. From that evening on we instantly understood each other and never looked back. #NBC We've packed so much life into our friendship. Late-night art projects and laughter until our sides ached; nights of dancing for hours and dreams of being a DJ. We were also roommates, turning daily routines into adventures—cooking together, trading inside jokes, and knowing someone always had your back just a room away. Al was—and remains one of my all-time favorite road trip partners. From DC to California and back again, those spontaneous journeys became some of the best memories. Al has this rare gift—she makes me laugh, truly and deeply, even when everything feels heavy. Her humor lands perfectly: quick, kind, never mean. In the kitchen, she's pure magic, meals that turn any gathering into something special and comforting. And as a mom now, she absolutely glows. She's the full picture: wildly creative, hilariously funny, deeply nurturing, and loyal to her core. Through every shift life has thrown—moves, changes, new seasons—Al has stayed steady. She's been there through it all: the highs, the lows, the ordinary Tuesdays, always ready with a laugh, a home-cooked meal, or just quiet presence. I truly can't picture this day without her standing beside me.
Courtney Barr
Bridesmaid
Courtney—the kind of friend who brings light and steadiness exactly when you need it. We grew up near each other, knowing of each other and the same friends but we really hit it off at good ol SheSha, and from that first hello, our connection felt easy and true. She's been a source of warmth, laughter, and quiet strength ever since. She was the first person to get me to try yoga, something that Ill always be grateful for. Courtney has this special way of showing up: with thoughtful gestures, a listening heart, and zero judgment. Whether we're sharing big dreams, navigating tough days, or simply enjoying the small joys, she makes every moment feel deeply meaningful. She's celebrated with me, encouraged me, and reminded me of my own worth time and again. Her kindness is steady, her humor gentle, and her friendship one of the most grounding. She's always been the steady calm of the group but also the best dance partner! I can't imagine this day without her by my side. Thank you, Courtney, for being the loyal, loving friend who makes everything feel a little more like home. You've added so much beauty to my story, and I'm endlessly grateful you're here for this chapter too.
Lauren Lemcke
Bridesmaid
Lauren—the kind of friend who turns what could have been rivalry into the deepest, most genuine sisterhood. I met her at Shesha, the hookah lounge, when she was the new girl who walked in and instantly commanded the space. Right away, I felt this twinge of jealousy. I just knew the guy I was seeing was going to fall hard for her—she was magnetic, confident, and impossible to ignore. Funny how life works: that spark of jealousy became the nudge I needed. Thanks to her, I broke things off with him. And in the most beautiful plot twist, Lauren and I became best friends instead. From there, everything flowed. We became roommates, sharing late nights, laughter, and we traveled together, chasing new places and making stories we'll retell forever. We've spent countless hours talking, on porches, up in trees, curled on couches, and so many dancing nights. Lauren gives the best advice: honest, kind, never judgmental, always spot-on. And her way of seeing people and the world is so unique—insightful, compassionate. She notices what others overlook and helps you see yourself and everyone else more clearly. What began as a moment of envy grew into one of the most cherished friendships of my life. She's been my confidante, adventure buddy, voice of reason, and constant source of light. I can't imagine standing here today without Lauren by my side.
Things To Do
Gatlinburg
Anakeesta
Dollywood
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