Maid of Honor
Callan and I were selected to be roommates freshman year at Elmira College. I may have been slightly nervous, as I was about to be living with someone I hardly knew and who had a black-belt in karate. Talk about intimidating! I knew we would be the best of friends when we simultaneously told the waitress that we would like our OWN sundae, a sundae that could have fed a family of 4. Witty, intelligent, and down to earth, my roommate of 4 years of course is going to be my maid of honor!
Best Man
Mike first met Brett in very early grade school after transferring to Valley View, and they quickly became best friends. What qualifies him to be best man? Like Mike, Brett is also a depressed Cowboys fan and the first and only person Mike got into a fight with—nothing strengthens a friendship like trading fists! Jokes aside, Brett’s kind and charming personality made him the top choice to be the best man.
Bridesmaid
It's rare to find someone you connect with almost instantly, who you can laugh with at the silliest things and talk through serious issues with the next. Rachel was that person for me. She was the first person I met at college and we have been friends ever since.
Groomsman
Dan moved to the same school as Mike in the 6th grade. He was quickly welcomed to their group of friends when he was put in the same home room as Mike and Tom. During the summers growing up, Mike practically lived at Dan’s house playing football, video games, and swimming. That friendship continued well past grade school when Dan, Tom, and Mike all rented a house together in their mid-20s.
Bridesmaid
Emily and I were neighbors and have known each other since we were 6 years old. We even experienced our first sleepover party together! Unfortunately, we lost contact after I switched schools, but years later when switching back I had a quick best friend and teammate. Emily has been there for me whenever I needed, and for that I am so grateful.
Groomsman
Tom was also one of the first friends Mike ever made at Valley View, and his family treated Mike like family growing up. Not even nearly blinding Mike’s younger sister, Mariah, with a hockey stick would end their friendship (which was half Mariah’s fault). Like Dan, Tom easily could have been the best man.
Bridesmaid
I first met Erica on my first day of pre-season swim practice at a new school. Going into a new school in 10th grade could be awful, however this girl made it one of the best decisions of my life. Erica and her sister, Courtney, went out of their way to include me and make me feel welcomed. Soon, for reasons and a long story I won't disclose, I started to call her "Teddy" - which I still call her to this day. I'm so thankful to have her in my life, and to have her by my side on our wedding day.
Groomsman
Anthony was the smallest of the group growing up earning the nickname ‘stick,’ but he was never scared to take them on in backyard football. Along with Dan, Tom, and Brett, Anthony rounds out Mike’s childhood group of friends who refer to themselves as the “fab five" who have formed a life-long bond of friendship.
Bridesmaid
I met Fatima freshman year at college as her dorm room was right across from mine and Callan's. After she was able to understand my sarcasm, she and I became quick friends. Fatima's energy is contagious, and I value her positive energy in my life. I am so thankful that I can have such an amazing woman by my side.
Groomsman
Though Brett and Mike go way back, they grew to be good friends once they became lifting (and racquetball) partners at the Spectrum. Brett's fun and easy-going personality made him an easy choice to be Mike's groomsman.
Bridesmaid
Katelyn is the most thoughtful and caring person I have ever met. I met Katelyn about 3 years ago when by brother Colin finally introduced her to me. What began as shy conversations turned into one of my dearest friendships. I've always said that I never wanted a sister, but this girl already is one to me. I am so thankful to have such amazing woman at my brother's side and as a part of this family. I cannot wait to have her be part of our wedding day.
Groomsman
Because Colin is my brother, he and Mike met a few weeks once we started dating. After only a few short years of knowing each other, Colin and Mike treat each other like brothers (including the "friendly" banter). While they both have my back, I also know they are there for each other whenever needed.