Taylor & Michael
Wedding Party
Taylor Sorenson
Bride
Taylor is 24 years old and studying at Minnesota State University, Mankato to become an Art Teacher. She enjoys collecting coffee mugs, ordering fried pickles at every restaurant that sells them, being outdoors, baking, and spending time with her family & friends. If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "Everywhere! But I can't wait to get to my last two states Alaska & Hawaii & I would love to see New Zealand, India, & Thailand." What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I'm so excited to finally marry my best friend and I can't wait to celebrate with all of the people that I love!"
Michael Budesky
Groom
"My name is Mike Budesky and I am 23 years old. I spend most of my time working as a Controls Engineer for KAMP Automation and also as a Heavy Equipment Operator for the Army National Guard. Some of my favorite things to do include road trips with the Lady, hiking, movies, shooting guns, and eating Take-Out at home with Taylor." If he could travel to anywhere in the world, he would go: "I would love to travel to Switzerland, because that sounds like a really great place!" What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I am beyond excited to start a new chapter in our lives officially as a married couple, and finally combine our families into one super family."
Chloe' Wallace
Maid of Honor-Friend
Chloé is currently a graduate student at the University of Minnesota getting her Master of Public Health with hopes of graduating in May 2021. She is also an Administrative and Events Specialist at the University. In her free time, she runs, travels, cooks, cares too much about the environment, and goes on short walks with her partner Josh and chunky little dog, Chewy. She’s a world changer in the making. Chloé is an upcoming world traveler who is hoping to head to the homeland next: Wales and Scotland. Chloé is most looking forward to seeing the bride all dressed up right before walking down the aisle glowing with love and excitement (She’s crying just thinking about it!). She is overjoyed that she gets to take part in this special event with her best friend and sister.
Bryan Barthel
Best Man-Friend
"Hello, my name is Bryan Barthel. I work as a Controls Engineer just like Mike except I work at Itron in Waseca. I met Mike and Taylor at college where Mike and I were roommates. I enjoy riding motorcycles, shooting guns, and playing video games with friends." If he could travel to anywhere in the world, he would go: "If I could go anywhere in the world, I would go to somewhere nice and warm with good food and drinks, maybe Spain." What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? "The thing I’m looking forward to the most at the wedding is to finally see Mike and Taylor united as husband and wife."
Amelia Budesky
Bridesmaid-Sister of the Groom
"Hello my name is Amelia Budesky and I am Michael's little sister. I am 19yrs old and attend a transitional high school program in Monticello. I enjoy horseback riding, playing with my three crazy dogs, going to camp and bowling with my friends and family." If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "If I could travel anywhere it would be to Hawaii to see a filming of Hawaii Five O." What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I am most looking forward to being a bridesmaid and dancing all night with Mike and Taylor!"
Jeremy Sorenson
Officiant-Brother of the Bride
"My name is Jeremy Sorenson and I am 21 will be 22 come wedding. I work in construction, and my hobbies include flying and PC gaming. I met the bride sadly by being her brother, but thankfully due to her charm I got to meet Mike which makes up for that." If he could travel to anywhere in the world, he would go: "I can't really pick just one place in the world mainly cause I want to see it all." What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? "Other than seeing my sister marry the person she loves most in the world (which is awesome) food. Food, is what I'm looking forward to. And drinking."
Raegen Matthews
Bridesmaid-Cousin of the Bride
"My name is Raegen Matthews and I'm 18:) I attend Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa with a major in Biology on a pre-medicine track and a double minor in Spanish and leadership. I am also in the National Guard as a 42 Alpha: Human Resources Specialist." If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "I want to travel all over Europe, preferably I’ll travel to Spain and study in college but I’d also love to see Paris and London sometime!" What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "Getting to spend time with family (which is always really fun) and finally getting to be in the wedding my sister and I have been dreaming about forever:) !!"
Markie Budesky
Groomsman-Brother of the Groom
"My name is Mark Budesky, I'm Mike's brother. I work at a glass tempering plant in Albertville. I enjoy listening to music and writing in my spare time." How did he meet the bride or groom (or both)? "I've known Mike and Taylor as a couple ever since they started dating and always knew they were great together." What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I'm excited to meet the people they're both close with at the wedding!"
Rylee Matthews
Bridesmaid-Cousin of the Bride
"I am 19 years old and I am currently a student at Iowa State University studying Chemical Engineering and Spanish. I love to sing, listen to true crime podcasts and play with my dog." How did she meet the bride or groom (or both)? "The bride is my cousin and basically older sister who I have always gone to for advice when navigating the world. I now know Mike as a part of the family since he has attended every important family event since I was a freshman in High School." What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I am looking forward to the whole wedding because I am excited for Taylor & Mike to get married, but I'm really looking forward to getting to dance & have fun!"
Angel Paz Reyes
Groomsman-Friend
"Name: Angel Paz Reyes Age: 28 Height: 5' 1" Weight: 135 lbs Hair Color: Black Eye Color: Brown Job: Controls Engineer at KAMP Automation Hobbies: Fishing, hunting and grilling." How did he meet the bride or groom (or both)? "Met Mike when he began his internship at Itron. Met and made Taylor super mad for trying to wrestle Mike at their house party. Sorry Taylor." What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? "Looking forward to seeing both of you get hitched and hoping that Bryan or Dan will cry of happiness."
Hannah Novack
Bridesmaid-Cousin of the Bride
I'm 23 years old and the mom of one of the flower girls, Avarie. I was blessed with growing up with the beautiful bride as my cousin/sister." If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "If I could travel anywhere in the world I would go to New Zealand."
Carter Novack
Groomsman-Cousin of the Bride
"Hi my name is Carter. I am 14 years old. Taylor is my cousin. I attend Apple Valley High School and enjoy gaming and hanging with my friends."
Devyn Smoter
Bridesmaid-Friend
"My name is Devyn, and I currently work at Kaas Wilson Architects in Bloomington. In my free time, I like hanging out with my hedgehog and trying out new chai tea lattes. One of my short-term goals is to move and live somewhere other than Minnesota. If there are tater tots on the menu, I WILL order them. Also, I 100% believe in Bigfoot." If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "I would go to the Middle East and/or Eastern Europe." What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I’m most looking forward to dancing at the wedding!"
Josh Stim
Groomsman-Friend
Josh is currently a psychiatric research assistant at the University of Minnesota Twin-Cities. He plans to apply for graduate school in Fall 2020. He is currently in a loving relationship with his sweetheart, Chloé Wallace (who is also in the Budesky wedding party). In his free-time, Josh likes to run long distances, eat new foods, read books, explore the city, and, of course, spend lots of time with Chloé and his lil rascal of a dog, Chewy. If he could travel to anywhere in the world, he would go: At the present moment, Josh would like to experience Alaska, Greenland, and/or Norway. What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? Seeing a happy couple get married! Also the food and drinks, of course.
Paige Zeman
Bridesmaid-Friend
"My name is Paige Zeman! 🤗 I grew up in the small town of Bloomer, Wisconsin with my mom, dad & sister. I moved to Mankato for college in 2014, that’s where I met Taylor! Now, we didn't really "hit it off" right away, but fast forward 5 years & I consider Taylor to be one of my best friends, she is my partner in crime (especially when it comes to our Target runs)! My first teaching position was during the 2019-2020 school year, teaching Special Education! In June, Davis and I adopted a dog from Texas! Her name is Kira & she is our loved & spoiled fur child! I enjoy playing with my dog, going to Target, watching movies, & hanging out with friends & family! I can’t wait to watch two of my favorite people profess their love for one another & start their forever as Mr. & Mrs. Budesky!"
Davis Burnham
Groomsman-Friend
"My name is Davis Burnham, I work for a small manufacturing company in New Ulm, Minnesota but I live in Mankato, Minnesota. I love to fish and golf when it is warm out, and hibernate when it is cold!" How did he meet the bride or groom (or both)? "I met Mike and Taylor during our freshman year of college. Mike was taking similar classes with me so I got to know him throughout the second semester. Mike formally introduced me to Taylor one weekend night, and I left an impression she probably won't forget. I won't get into details but I had to use my cleaning skills in Mike's dorm room." What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I cannot wait to celebrate with the families and friends of Mike and Taylor, as I have been fortunate to meet lots of them throughout the years!"
Ursula Hagstrand
Bridesmaid-Friend
"My name is Ursula Hagstrand. I am 25 ((Currently) but will be 26 at the wedding). I grew up in Topeka Kansas and went to Kansas State University where I studied Sculpture and Long Term Care Administration. My hobbies include working out, skiing, hiking, and spending as much time as possible with my doggo, Aspen! I also have a sweet and cuddly kitty, Zeek." If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "If I could travel anywhere in the world I would travel to New Zealand and Ireland!" What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I am most looking forward to the drinks and watching Mike and Taylor make out all night! Dancing the night away and helping Taylor get ready are on the list too."
Dan Welscher
Groomsman-Friend
"My name is Dan Welscher. I'm 24 years old, and my number one hobby is "Livin' the Dream!" I work at KAMP Automation with Mike, which is perfect because I get to "live the dream" on a daily basis." If he could travel to anywhere in the world, he would go: "If I could travel anywhere in the world, I'd go to Canada where I could experience one of the only places where winter is colder, and even more unpleasant than Minnesota." What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I'm most looking forward to the end of this wedding, so I can finally have some god-damned peace and quiet!😆 Congrats Mike and Taylor!"
Melissa Abkemeier
Bridesmaid-Friend
"Hi! I'm Melissa, I am 28 years old, mother, harry potter obsessed and travel addict. I have been to 54 countries and cannot wait to get back out and about! I graduated from Minnesota State University, Mankato with my degree in social work but am currently working as an Independent Living Skills worker and LOVE it. One of my favorite hobbies is photography." If she could travel to anywhere in the world, she would go: "If I could go anywhere, I would go on a liveaboard to scuba dive/explore the Galápagos Islands." What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I am looking forward to the classic-- seeing Mike's face as Taylor walks down the aisle."
Alec Abkemeier
Groomsman-Friend
"Age: 28 (or ancient) Job: Controls engineer or slave Hobbies: raising a child, gaming, sleeping, blowing my money on a charger Gender: Male" If he could travel to anywhere in the world, he would go: "Back to south east asia" What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? "Watching you two lock in your life together."
January Novack
Chaos Coordinator-Cousin of the Bride
"Hello everyone, I am January. Taylor is my cousin & like a daughter to me! I'm a mom of 3 beautiful kids & a proud grandmother to miss Avarie Lee. I enjoy being with my family (most of the time)." What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I am very proud of my Taylor & super excited for her & Mike's new adventure in life!
Dakotah Novack
Flower Girl-Cousin of the Bride
"Hi my name is Dakotah. I am 10 years old and Taylor is my cousin and my God mom...I like to listen to music and to be creative. I enjoy being with my family and doing lots of fun things with my Girl Scouts."
Avarie Novack
Flower Girl-Cousin of the Bride
Avarie is the daughter of Hannah, one of the Bridesmaids. She will be 2 years old at the time of the wedding!
Declan Abkemeier
Ring Bearer-Baby of Friends
"Hi! I'm Declan! I will be about 1 1/2 by the time some of my favorite people get married! I love being the center of attention and always know how to get it by fake coughing or doing something cute if everyone isn't paying attention to me. I love playing with my toys, watching Elmo's World when mommy and daddy actually let me, getting out and about doing something outside of the house and reading books are my favorite! Mommy and daddy have already taken me on the airplane twice and I am only 7 months old! I can't wait to travel all the time like they do!" If he could travel to anywhere in the world he would go: "If I could go anywhere it would probably be Thailand since mommy and daddy talk about it ALL the time!" What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? "Eating cake."
Anne Boesen
Chaos Crew-Girlfriend of Brother of the Bride
"My name is Anne Boesen. I am 20 years old and I am a BIM Coordinator at Parsons Electric, LLC. In my free time I like to play video games and knit. I met the Bride and Groom around 5 years ago via my boyfriend, Taylor's brother." If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "If I could travel anywhere in the world it would be Iceland." What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "The most exciting thing about the wedding is watching Taylor and Mike's ceremony."
Rowan Salzl
Chaos Crew-Step Sister of the Groom
"My name is Rowan Salzl, I am a senior at St. Cloud State University, studying Biomedical Sciences for Pre-Vet Medicine. My hobbies include hanging out with friends spending time with animals, and working, pretty lame I know. I work at Companions Animal Hospital as an Animal Care Technician, I was an intern there for a year before working there." If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "I would travel to Germany and travel around Europe." What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I am looking forward to seeing Taylor and Mike finally get married! "
Sara Hoppe
Chaos Crew-Cousin of the Groom
"I am (will be at the time of the wedding) 18 years old and a first year at the College of St. Benedict. I enjoy reading, writing, playing ukulele, and singing! If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "I would want to visit Ireland!" What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I'm excited to be a part of such a special day and to be able to witness the marriage of two of my favorite people and biggest role models. And of course I'm excited to see Taylor's dress!"
Bekah Hasbrouck
Chaos Crew-Cousin of the Groom
"I work at powder ridge. I’m 16 years old." If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "If I could go anywhere I would go to Germany!" What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I’m most excited to dance and be apart if the big day!"
DeAnn Sorenson
Mother of the Bride
"I am a retired Medical Technologist that now works for Delta Airlines. I love to hike and kayak and spend time at our cabin with family." If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "I would love to travel to New Zealand." How did she meet the groom? "I knew of Mike early on-when Taylor was in 6th grade she came home in her dad's New England Patriots Jersey & told me that a cute boy named Mike talked to her because he liked the Patriots too! Later, we met Mike on several occasions when we would chaperone some of their high school friend group outings. We liked Mike right away because of the way he included Taylor's brother like he was part of the group. I love that Mike can get Taylor to be more spontaneous and try new things. I think they balance each other perfectly."
Al Sorenson
Father of the Bride
"Hi, I am Al, the proud father of Taylor & her younger brother Jeremy. I work as a Merchandising Supervisor for a national distribution company. I enjoy exploring new places, the outdoors & bonfires with a beer(s) & all types of music." If he could travel to anywhere in the world, he would go: "My first choice would be Alaska or Hawaii so we can beat Taylor to all 50 states, then maybe New Zealand to visit the shire!" How did he meet the groom? "It feels like Mike has been a part of our family from the start. Since Mike & Taylor grew together as best friends before dating it wasn't hard to say yes when he asked me for Taylor's hand over a good beer & great view in Grand Marais. It was harder keeping it a secret (especially from Taylor's mom) for a whole year!"
Jill Budesky
Step Mother of the Groom
"Hi, I am Jill Budesky, Mark’s wife. We have the cutest dog in the world named Brady. If you know Mark you know why we named him Brady… I am an Account Manager for a Life Insurance Broker for high wealth clients. I have 3 daughters, Taylor who is a kindergarten teacher, Madison who is a cardiac nurse, and Haley who is getting her degree in Horticulture studies -they all live in California." If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "On my bucket list is a trip to Santorini Greece that we hope to take in the near future." What is she looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I am looking forward to enjoying this wedding and not having to plan anything!! Oh & dancing & seeing Michael & Taylor officially start their new life together."
Mark Budesky
Father of the Groom
"I am Mark, Michael's dad. I have been fixing airplanes for 36 years, 32 with Delta and 4 with the US Navy. Just recently got married to Jill, my angel from heaven. Mike has been a breeze, great at home, great at school, great in his career and now great at choosing his life long partner, Taylor. I liked her from day one. She will be a great daughter in law and I hope I can be a great father in law." If he could travel to anywhere in the world, he would go: "If I could choose to go anywhere in the world it would be wherever my wife wants to go. Happy wife, happy life. 'There is only one happiness in life: to love and be loved' " What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? "Looking forward to the wedding, its the beginning of a new journey for Mike and Taylor."
Pam Salzl
Mother of the Groom
"Hello I am Pam Salzl and I am Michael's proud mother. I work as a registered dental assistant for a office in St. Michael and I love my job! Outside of work I enjoy camping,hiking,kayaking and hanging out with our two crazy dogs. My husband Mj and I love to cook and try new recipes.. most of our family know it as experimental Sunday’s 🤣" If she could travel to anywhere in the world she would go: "It would be Ireland.. it looks so peaceful and green." How did she meet the bride? "I can’t really remember my first time meeting Taylor.. seems like she has been part of this mess forever. I guess my most memorable is when she lived with us for a summer. I experienced an adventurous quirky amazing girl that made me laugh every day and I hoped one day I would call her my daughter."
Mark "MJ" Salzl
Step Father of the Groom
"Howdy, I am MJ Salzl the grooms stepdad. I work as a Diesel Mechanic at Allstate Peterbilt. I enjoy mountain biking, JEEPIN’, kayaking, camping, exploring new places and am always looking for a new adventure that I can share with Pam." If he could travel to anywhere in the world he would go: "It would be to Ireland and tour the island by bicycle and Guinness!" What is he looking forward to the most at the wedding? "I am most looking forward to the adventure that these two are bound to have after the wedding itself is over, and they can relax and just be crazy kids in love!!"