Wedding Party

Joy Wallace

Bride

I know Ryan because I am married to him now.

Ryan Brady

Groom

Same.

Gracie Wallace

Maid of Honor

How do I know the bride, you might ask? It's quite funny, really. I remember her most fondly as the girl I blackmailed for years after watching her catch the carpet on fire. She put the fire out using a wicker stool, and then probably gave me a foot massage or something to keep me quiet. It worked, because we've been best friends ever since. I guess it helped her case that we're sisters and I didn't really have a choice. There might be 6 years and 1,200 miles between us, but that doesn't keep her from Facetiming me at the most inconvenient times of day. It really should be on her resume as a special skill. When she's not being a complete pain in my (censored: mature content) she's usually doing some sort of artistic act of service to make someone she loves feel special.

Tyler Brady

Best Man

Melissa Meek

Bridesmaid

Joy and I met when I was twenty seconds old and our moms took us for a photo shoot. The first of many. Every time we saw each other we always had to wear matching outfits like the U of M cheerleader outfits or the dresses made by her mom. I always got excited when “Cousin Joy” (I thought that was her official name) was coming to Michigan because it meant sleepovers and playing Queen (Joy), Princess (me) and Servant (my brother). He didn’t like hanging out with us. Now that we're older, nothing has really changed except for the kinds of drinks we put in our sippy cups. We've never lived less than thirteen hours away from each other but Joy has turned into my best friend. Now it’s my turn to stand by her and (ugly) cry at her wedding.

Nick Host

Best man

Amanda Schattie

Bridesmaid

I met Joy in a college art class with our favorite old hippie art professor. We went to get spiked milkshakes, stayed up late watching holy water commercials, and ended up basically living together because once you’ve eaten Lunchables together, you’re friends for life. I can’t fit all our memories in a blurb, but football games, walking to the cemetery & making witchy altars, & wine nights are my favorite college memories. If it helps you understand how much I love this lady, I trusted her when after watching 12 episodes of One Tree Hill and it was STILL ABOUT BASKETBALL, she said “I promise it gets good,” so I kept watching. (Spoiler alert - she was right). I’m so excited that she found her person & am researching waterproof mascaras for when I get to see my beautiful friend say “I do.”

Austin Dummer

Groomsman

I met the Albino Rhino in 2011 and haven’t had a dull moment since with this energetic and loud friend of mine. Meeting a fellow Minnesotan in Iowa State’s sea of farm boys was a breath of fresh air as we shared our continued sadness over the Minnesota Vikings and hockey. Throughout college Ryan was my go-to partner for gym determination, late-to-class excuses, and Busch Light hydration. After graduation and going separate directions in terms of careers and locations, I still look forward to the handful of friend’s weddings, Holiday’s and football game facetimes when I knew I could expect Ryan to be endless energy and the best Bohemian Rhapsody singer in the tri-state area. Beyond happy for you and Joy in your bond together and beginning of such an exciting chapter of life together!

Molly Sexton

Bridesmaid

It was December 30th, 2018, on a cold dark suburban street, when I first laid eyes on her. We had all been gathered for the annual, MudBrothers®️, New Years Eve celebration. Everyone who’s anyone is there each year, but this year there was a new face. Upon hearing her sarcastic humor from across the sprawling marble island, I knew she would fit right in. Fast forward two years and two deployments later, Joy has been a grounding force in my life as we navigate the JOYs of the army together. We shared many quarantine FaceTime dates and I had the honor of bridal dress shopping with her. Joy is one of the most thoughtful people I have ever met. I cannot wait to see Joy, in all of her glory, walking down the aisle to her forever!

Bruce Lund

Groomsman

Shelby Collins

Bridesmaid

Joy and I met when we were both teaching middle school in Colorado. She is kind and patient and an excellent listener. She was always fun to be around, quick with a joke and so understanding, but our friendship solidified when I introduced her to my daughter. They played, talked, and she made Avery laugh constantly. I knew that Avery would always be able to rely on her Auntie Joy and that leaves me forever in her debt (until she has a baby and I can spoil it rotten). I couldn’t have asked for a better friend. Joy has been there for me and my family with support, a smile, and always as someone that I could depend on. I am so happy that you have found the love of your life but I will never forgive him for taking you away. I'll forever love you and I'll forever glare at him behind his back.

Jacob Scott

Groomsman

Clayton Touchton

Bridesman

Kyle Simpson

Groomsman

Alexandra Brady

Bridesmaid

It may be painfully obvious by the pasty white skin and general towheaded nature, but for those who don’t know, I am the sister of the groom. Though it was not an easy feat living with Ryan, especially during his emo/teen angst phase, I am proud to call him my brother. I met Joyson officially in Colorado Springs when I came down to adopt my dog Mila. I knew from her love of dogs, La Croix, and lively personality she would be a good match for Ryan. Though she will face many battles defending her hairspray and anything that looks expensive from Ry, I know the two of them will enjoy a lifetime of happiness eating tacos and hiking together.

Steve Blackford

Groomsman

Avery Collins

Flower Girl

I’m going to Auntie Joy’s party to be in love!