Wedding Party
Mark Anthony Beard
Best Man
Mark has been there since day one—literally. As my brother, he’s stood by me through every trial and every triumph, always someone I could turn to no matter what life threw my way. Through the good times and the hard ones, he’s been a constant source of strength, support, and perspective. We’ve shared so many unforgettable memories together—from beach vacations to catching NASCAR races live, to even working side by side for years at the same company. He’s taught me a lot, including how to be a vendor, and along the way we’ve learned so much from each other about life. I truly couldn’t ask for a better brother, and it means everything to have him standing beside me as my best man.
Holly Frehse
Matron of Honor
Holly is my sister, my matron of honor, and truly my ride or die. I’ve had the gift of knowing her since her day one, and while we were close growing up, our bond in adulthood has become something even deeper—she’s not just my sister, but one of my very best friends. Being five years younger never stopped us from sharing a lifetime of memories, secrets, and plenty of shenanigans. From concerts and movies to beach trips that somehow turned into overnight adventures, from college visits in Charleston to bull riding events, road trips, and even spontaneous travels to places like Vegas and Deadwood (which somehow led to us being on The Bachelor!), we’ve done a little bit of everything together. One of the most special chapters we’ve shared was moving across the country together to SD, where we spent time nursing on an Indian reservation, an experience that brought us even closer and gave us memories we’ll carry forever. We share a love for travel, laughter, ice cream, and making the most out of every moment—whether it’s VIP experiences, special meals, or even a simple trip to Lowe’s at the beach. She was even part of my engagement day behind the scenes without me knowing. Somewhere along the way, she started claiming that I bring her good luck—which I’m more than happy to go along with. I’ve truly been blessed with the best sister, and I thank God for her and the incredible role she plays in my life. It means everything to have her standing by my side on such a special day.
Lyle Thomas Gillespie
Groomsman
LT has been a constant in my life since 2010, when I first met him, his wife Linda, and their three boys. From the very beginning, he’s been the kind of person you can count on without hesitation—the kind of guy who shows up at the drop of a hat, no questions asked. Over the years, we’ve shared countless memories, from family meals at his house to plenty of laughs and good times. One moment that always stands out is that cookout when we were shooting guns off his porch—just one of those unforgettable days that perfectly captures how much fun we’ve had together. Having LT as a groomsman means more to me than I can put into words.
Allie Harrington
Bridesmaid
Allie, my cousin and one of my bridesmaids, has been such a joy to watch grow up over the years. Though she’s a bit younger, we’ve shared so many fun memories together, from spontaneous “YOLO” moments like upgrading tickets at a Backstreet Boys concert so she could see a “real boy band” (and fist pump with DJ Pauly D!) to carefree beach days that somehow turned into full-on airhead parties. She’s sweet, fun-loving, and always ready for a good time. Now, as the proud mom of my ring bearer, it means so much to have her standing by my side on such a special day.
Juan Rogelio Cortes
Groomsman
Juan has been in my life since the very beginning—literally. Back in elementary school, when I was in the middle of changing schools, he had already decided he wanted to be my friend before we’d even properly met. That says a lot about the kind of person he is. Over the years, I’ve watched him grow into a strong, dedicated family man who always shows up for the people he cares about. He’s one of the most supportive friends I have. I still remember the honor of being part of his wedding, sitting with him at the head table and sharing some incredible Mexican food—just one of many great memories we’ve built together. I’m proud to have him standing with me as a groomsman.
Bethany Ann Rushing
Bridesmaid
Bethany is a fellow teacher who started as a grade-level teammate and, over the past five years, has become a truly dear friend. We’ve shared countless meals and long, heartfelt conversations, walking through both the ups and downs of life together—offering a listening ear, a simple prayer, or words of encouragement when needed, and celebrating side by side in the good times. We grew even closer during the season we worked on the same grade level, especially after an overnight professional development trip that gave us extra time to connect. While there’s a bit of an age difference between us, we’ve been on a similar journey in our teaching experience, making her such a special partner along the way. Her bubbly, excitable personality perfectly balances my calmer nature, and her big heart and love for Jesus shine in all she does. It means so much to me that she’ll be standing by my side as a bridesmaid on my big day—I’m truly blessed to call her my friend.
Daxton Terry
Ring Bearer
Dax is an adorable little guy who will be four by the wedding day, and he’s already full of personality. He’s a big fan of Bluey, Paw Patrol, soccer, riding bikes, and trips to the beach—also, we have a shared love of ice cream. Even though we don’t get to see him often, he’s always such a joy when we do. I’m so excited for this blue eyed cutie to be part of our big day as my ring bearer—he’s sure to make it even more special.
Paisley Spencer
Flower Girl
Paisley is a bright and joyful kid with a heart full of kindness and curiosity. Even in the short time I’ve known her, she’s made a lasting impression with her excitement about the world around her—especially when it comes to special moments like my wedding, where she’ll shine as my flower girl. Paisley dreams of becoming a teacher one day, and it’s easy to see why: she already carries the warmth, enthusiasm, and big heart that will inspire everyone she meets.
Kathy Crow
Personal Attendant
Kathy is a wonderful new addition to my “family” who has already made such a meaningful impact. From the very beginning, she has shown incredible kindness and generosity, offering to help in so many ways despite not having known me long. We first connected over shared meals and time spent at the wrecker shop, and since then, she has been such a blessing—helping behind the scenes with wedding details and serving as a personal attendant on the big day. Kathy’s caring heart shines through in everything she does, and our shared love of animals, especially dogs, makes her presence even more special. I’m so grateful to have her as part of this journey.
Erica Spencer
Personal Attendant
Erica is a newer friend who has quickly become such a meaningful part of my life. Through shared meals and long conversations, we’ve built a friendship rooted in kindness, faith, and genuine care for one another. As the mother of my flower girl and my personal attendant on the wedding day, she has been such a blessing throughout the planning process. Erica has a beautiful heart—you can always turn to her as a prayer warrior in times of need. Our shared love for Jesus, women’s conferences, and Bible studies has made our connection even more special, and I’m so grateful to have her by my side.
Brance Frehse
Usher
Brance James is the kind of guy you want in your corner—whether you’re moving furniture, building something from scratch, or just trying to win a game night. As our usher and brother-in-law, he’s proven himself to be one of the most humble, loyal, and reliable people we know. Sure, he’ll argue with you and might drive you a little nuts along the way, but when it really counts, Brance always shows up—no questions asked (even if he swears it’s the last time). A farmboy transplant from Iowa, Brance brings a strong work ethic and an even bigger heart wherever he goes. He’s the kind of person who will bend over backwards to help someone in need without expecting anything in return. Don’t let his humility fool you either—he’s seriously skilled at darts, even if he insists he’s “not quite pro level yet.” Add in a competitive streak that comes out during family game nights—especially over Phase 10 or Aggravation—and you’ve got someone who’s just as fun to laugh with as he is to challenge (unless he’s winning, of course). Big in stature and even bigger in heart, Brance is the kind of family you’re grateful for—steady, selfless, and always there when it matters most.
Mike Humphries
Father of the Bride
Mike is the first man I ever loved—my dad. He has always been a steady provider for our family, showing his love through hard work, presence, and unwavering support. From an early age, he taught us important values like always telling the truth and developed in me a strong work ethic that continues to guide me today. He loves God deeply, never meets a stranger, and has a natural gift for connecting with people wherever he goes. While we’ve definitely had our share of butting heads over the years—he’s probably where I get my strong stubborn streak from—he has always been supportive and present when it matters most. He raised us to be independent and capable, giving us the skills to take care of ourselves, while still always being there if we needed him. Outgoing, hardworking, and full of life, he has always been a constant in my life. I am truly excited and honored to have him stand by my side on my wedding day as the father of the bride.
Lynn Humphries
Mother of the Bride
Lynn is my mom, the best I could ever have. Growing up without a strong mother figure herself, she made it her mission to ensure my sister and I always had love, support, and stability she never knew. She has been there for everything—our biggest cheerleader in every season of life—from driving us to activities and volunteering at school and church, to leading Girl Scouts and GAs. I still remember her as the “soup label lady” in elementary school, always showing up in small but meaningful ways. She often went without so we never had to, and even now she continues to give her whole heart to her family. She’s been there since day one for doctor appointments, surgeries, classroom parties, and even helped set up my engagement without me knowing—something I’ll always treasure. We’ve shared so many memories together, from trips to Charleston, Myrtle Beach, Cheyenne, and a birthday in Vegas, to her making every effort to visit us in South Dakota whenever she could. Most recently, she lovingly cared for me during my recovery after surgery, just as she always shows up when needed most. She is strong, kind, deeply loving, and endlessly giving. She still sees us as “her babies,” even though we’re grown, and extends that same love to others—welcoming Josh and Brance into the family and spoiling them right alongside us. I feel incredibly blessed to call her my mom and have her love in my life every day.
James McGowan
Father of the Groom
James—better known as Jimbo—is the dad who didn’t have to be, but chose to be. He stepped into my life when I was just two years old and never looked back. He helped raise me, guide me, and showed me what it truly means to be a man with a heart of gold. To me, he’s simply one of the greatest men I’ve ever known. Over the years, we’ve shared countless laughs, memories, and adventures—trips to all kinds of places, weekends spent walking flea markets, and quiet days fishing, even if it was just in the pond behind the old house. He taught me how to sell just about anything—even the shoes off my feet—to a total stranger, but more importantly, he taught me about hard work, generosity, and showing up for the people you love. No matter how long his day had been, he’d still stay up late to play HORSE or CAT with us, always finding a way to make us laugh. He went all out for birthdays and Christmas, making sure those moments felt special every single time. Jimbo has always been there—with humor, love, and unwavering support—and I’m beyond grateful to call him my dad.
Jackie McGowan
Mother of the Groom
Jackie was the strongest woman I’ve ever known—a mother whose love, resilience, and generosity shaped every part of my life. For a time, she carried the weight of raising me and my brother on her own, doing so with unwavering determination until my dad came into the picture. No matter what I faced—every surgery, every hardship, every moment of uncertainty—she was there beside me, steady and unshakable. Despite the many trips to doctors and time spent in hospitals growing up, she made my childhood meaningful and fun—no matter what I was dealing with. She always went the extra mile, going above and beyond, even if it meant doing without for herself. My Christmases and birthdays were unforgettable. She always wanted us to have everything she didn’t. She was the glue that held our family together, the steady presence that kept us grounded through every season of life. Most importantly, she wanted her boys to get along and be there for one another—and we have. She was a firm believer in family and in sticking together through everything. Her love was truly unconditional. She would have given the shirt off her back to anyone in need, never hesitating to put others before herself. As I grew older, our bond only deepened, turning into a closeness I will always cherish. She is one of the biggest reasons I am who I am today. Though she is no longer here with us, her strength, her love, and her spirit will always live on in my heart.
Allan Burrell
Brother of the Groom
Allan is more than just my brother—he’s been a constant presence in my life for as long as I can remember. No matter what’s going on, I can count on hearing from him; he calls me every day, and that says everything about the kind of brother he is. Over the past several years, it feels like we’ve grown even closer, building a bond that’s only gotten stronger with time. Like any brothers, we’ve had our ups and downs, but through it all, he’s always been exactly the brother I needed. We’ve shared so many memories together—family cookouts, fireworks lighting up the night, and the simple moments that end up meaning the most. He was also the one who introduced me to Mexican food, which turned out to be a life-changing move since it’s now my favorite. Allan has always been protective of me, and even more so since Mom passed. He’s always looking out for me, always in my corner. I’m grateful every day to have a brother like him by my side.