Wedding Party
Erika Crater
Bride
Erika is always up for an adventure with Brandon, she's their resident "yes, let's do it!" person. While she recently lost her beloved dog, Koda, the memories of their adventures together are cherished. In her free time, Erika laces up her running shoes and tackles anything from 5Ks to half marathons – proof of her determination and sense of adventure. Speaking of adventures, she met Brandon at a line-dancing bar (don't worry, they've graduated to more graceful moves on the slopes now!). Together, they conquer the snowy peaks with their snowboards – a perfect example of their shared love for trying new things.
Brandon DeBoer
Groom
Brandon's journey to this special day has been filled with laughter, friendship, and of course, delicious smoked meats. Whether conquering the slopes with his bride, Erika (whom he met at a line-dancing bar – read all about it on the front page!), battling it out in his fantasy football league (he's the commissioner, naturally!), or hanging out with his amazing groomsmen, Brandon brings a smile and a sense of fun to everything he does. He can't wait to celebrate this next chapter with all of you!
Olivia Crater
Maid of Honor
Olivia, Erika's sister and Maid of Honor, brings a double dose of fun to the party. While she might "borrow" Erika's clothes occasionally (sisters, right?), their bond is built on shared adventures, from walking their dogs together to movie marathons and shopping sprees. Always ready for a good time, Olivia's infectious energy ensures the bridesmaids' night out will be one for the books!
Joseph Breuker
Best Man
Their friendship began on the snowy slopes during middle school ski club. Ever since, Joseph and Brandon have been partners in crime, conquering the slopes together, hitting the golf course, and (perhaps more importantly) raising a little friendly havoc. Joseph's a trusted confidant and a rock-solid friend – exactly who Brandon needs by his side on this momentous day.
Vivian Crouch
Bridesmaid
Hailing from practically the same backyard (just 5 minutes apart!), Vivian and Erika have been inseparable since childhood. Erika practically lived at Vivian's house, and their adventures often involved their furry companions. From hitting the hiking trails to beach picnics with the pups, they've created countless memories together. Their shared love of running even led them to conquer a half marathon side-by-side – proving their friendship has the stamina to go the distance!
Eric Demkowicz
Groomsman
Sunshine, cigars, and scholarly pursuits brought Eric and Brandon together during their grad school days at the University of Florida. Their friendship quickly blossomed, fueled by shared beach days and a mutual love for Top Gun (evident in the name of Eric's beloved dog, Goose). Brandon even stepped in as a trusty dog walker, solidifying their bond.
Lexie Gonzalez
Bridesmaid
Lexie entered Erika's life through Brandon's friendship with Martin (the bonfire buddy and fellow grillmaster). Back in the day, Lexie and Martin were a couple, and through their connection, Erika found a wonderful friend in Lexie. This friendship proved invaluable when Erika and Brandon embarked on their long-distance adventure. Lexie ensured Erika always felt included in the friend group's activities, making the distance a little less daunting. Now, with Lexie by her side as a bridesmaid, Erika is ready to celebrate this new chapter with all the people who matter most!
Martin Gonzalez
Groomsman
A summer bonfire with mutual friends sparked the friendship between Martin and Brandon. Since then, Martin's become Brandon's partner-in-crime for chill Sundays watching football, his ever-reliable wingman, and whenever the grill gets fired up, they become an unstoppable grilling team, each famous for their legendary backyard barbecues.
Kristina Eberlein
Bridesmaid
Kristina is always down for a spontaneous Target run with Erika. But their adventures extend beyond the aisles – Kristina's a champion brewery and bar finder, ensuring their social calendar is always buzzing. Their competitive spirit shines on the tennis court, where they once dominated as high school doubles partners. And speaking of fateful decisions, it was Kristina who convinced Erika to join her at the line-dancing bar that fateful night – a decision that led Erika to meet Brandon. We have Kristina to thank for setting the stage for this love story!
Cole Vaughan
Groomsman
From co-workers in the ASPIRE program at Baker Hughes to lifelong friends, Brandon and Cole's bond goes beyond the office. Cole wasn't just a buddy in the program, he was Brandon's go-to guy for career advice (and maybe a little friendly competition!). Their shared love for fantasy football and a good cigar solidified their friendship. But the true test came when Brandon was struck down by COVID. Cole, ever the loyal friend, showed up with a legendary chicken noodle soup that Brandon swears to this day is the cure for COVID.
Brooklyn VanAusdall
Bridesmaid
Another friend who came into Erika's life thanks to Brandon's awesome crew is Brooklyn! Their connection blossomed within the group, and they always have a blast catching up whenever everyone gets together. Now, as Erika embarks on this exciting new chapter, Brooklyn's presence as a bridesmaid adds another layer of joy to the celebration.
Joshua DeBoer
Groomsman
Despite a 12-year age gap, Brandon and Joshua share a strong bond built on a love for all things fast (cars) and fantastical (Star Wars). Thanks to their amazing parents (looking at you, Mom and Dad!), they both seem to have inherited a crazy metabolism and appetite, especially when it comes to pizza. They might even try to convince you it's a balanced food group.
