Wedding Party

Tristan

Groom

Alright, you all win. I'm getting married and the government will officially be involved in my love life. 10 incredible years have finally convinced me that forever's got a nice ring to it and I'm doing my best to throw a fun party where you each get to say, "I told you so." As for this page, I've been tasked with writing my own description and a description of my groomsmen for this website. Describing myself and my friends for others is a rather uncomfortable task and honestly Rachel should have known better than to give me an open platform like this. So, I'm going to pack in as many jokes as I think I can fit without Rachel telling me to rewrite things. To those that don't yet know me very well I'll be the pale one standing front and center waiting on Rachel and, at the reception, I'll be the one handing out salt like some weird sodium preacher. Some things I like, in no particular order, are my dog, steak, honey and cast iron pans. I dislike sunlight, roaches, government, and men that wear open toed shoes away from the beach. You can typically find me pursuing a hobby I'll only be interested in for ~3 months. I recently won a semi-satirical shooting competition against friends and as you'll see, I couldn't pass up this perfect opportunity to rub it in. I hope you all have fun reading the rest because Rachel has already said I'm writing far too much (before even reading them) so try not to get too bored reading them. Enjoy and we'll see you soon!

Rachel Byrum

Bride

Hey there! If we haven’t crossed paths yet, I’m Tristan’s personal Rolodex, calendar, and resident rememberer of all things important. It’s pretty comical, considering I have a knack for misplacing my phone every five seconds and rely on Tristan to call it just so I can locate it again. But fear not, despite my struggles with organization and my aversion to writing (I’d rather do just about anything else!), I promise to make up for it by rocking that white dress on the big day. Now, I might be rocking that white dress by tripping over my own feet or up a set of stairs, but that’s not the point. I’m incredibly excited to see you all, and you can bet I’ll be sneaking in some snacks whenever I can. As for the rest of the bridal party’s bio’s, they may not be as lengthy or witty as the groomsmen’s, but they are each cherished members of my life, and I adore them all dearly.

Dustin Woodall

Best Man

The hunk of a man with the taxpayer funded smile shown here is Dustin. Adored by the groom and merely tolerated by the bride, Dustin and Tristan have been inseparable since early high school. As close as two men can be without being lovers, Tristan considered him early on for the role of the bride, but Rachel refused to be in the wedding unless she got the starring role. Dustin is Tristan's go-to man for every idea, be it brilliant, stupid, or a complete waste of time, and he has diligently carried out his role as the best man since long before being asked. Unfortunately, he is a mediocre shooter compared to Tristan and he tied for 6th in the esteemed "Hi-Point Olympics." You can force him to talk to you as long as it's about fishing, photography, or critters of any kind. He's typically difficult to find awake or in public, but he has made an exception for this wedding.

Terrell Berkley

Groomsman

This beautiful masterpiece is Terrell. Adored by everyone he meets, it's challenging to find fault in this groomsman, aside from his aim. Kind to a fault, Terrell has been offering emotional support and questionable wisdom to the groom since 2010. Tristan turns to him for help when he doesn't know where else to turn. A horrible shot, Terrell tragically took last place in the small group's famous "Hi-Point Olympics." He'll introduce you to some great new music, regardless of whether you have the strange taste required to enjoy it or not. In his rare free time, you'll catch him on the internet or on a hike with the wonderful Ashley Brogan. Seek him out if you enjoy discussing computers, conspiracies, or the terrifying vast emptiness of space. You may find him passed out in a chair somewhere around 8 PM, but if you shake him, he will get up and rally.

Devin Carter

Groomsman

Here's to Devin, in all his glory—a friend to every stranger he meets and a close companion of the groom since High School. His steady stream of ideas and limitless ambition have inspired Tristan to do more and be better since the day they met. Devin is the loving husband of Katy Carter (featured in the "Bridesmaids" section) and the proud father of one of our handsome ring bearers (the one that looks like Devin but tiny). While he may have come in second place in the prestigious "Hi-Point Olympics," Devin is quite the shooter, although not quite comparable to our impressive groom. If you're looking for some incredible live music, seek out Devin—he's one helluva singer, songwriter, and guitar player. Beyond his singing talents, Devin excels in providing engaging conversations, especially if you're interested in discussing subjects such as hunting or exploring potential small businesses to start together.

Austin Short

Groomsman

Don't be deceived by his movie-star good looks; Austin is a truly rugged individual. As a diesel mechanic with interests ranging from canoeing and outdoor survival to guns, weightlifting, whiskey, and the occasional cigar, his is the number to call for a good time. Few others can make the groom feel like his collection of interests is reasonable, and he and Austin tend to expand each other's lists in a vicious and expensive cycle. An exceptional wrestler, Austin formed a close bond with Tristan during High School wrestling, where they supported each other through months of starvation and suffering. These days he can typically be found with his lovely wife, Christy Short, or navigating a river while trying to drown the shame of claiming to be a competition shooter prior to taking 8th in the only shooting competition that truly matters. If you're curious about canoes, trucks, or any hobby that might raise concerns for your safety among your loved ones, Austin is the person to talk to.

Katy Carter

Matron of Honor

Katy has seamlessly woven herself into Rachel's life since she began dating, and later married, Devin, a close friend and groomsman of Tristan's. From the moment they met, Katy's adventurous spirit and unwavering support made her an irreplaceable addition. Whether they're embarking on spontaneous get togethers or simply enjoying the comfort of late-night cookie baking sessions, Katy and Rachel share a bond forged through laughter, snacks, and navigating the occasional antics of their partners. Katy's presence is a constant source of joy and solidarity, reminding Rachel that she always has a trusted ally by her side.

Vianca Leon

Maid of Honor

Vianca and Rachel’s friendship began in their 1st period Drama class during their senior year of high school, bonding over their shared desire to avoid the freshman that dominated the class. They’ve created lasting memories, from getting ready for school dances to spontaneous road trips and late-night food adventures. They’ve been there for each other through life’s ups and downs, experiencing the full spectrum of joys and adversities. Since Vianca was the first person to know about Rachel and Tristan’s relationship, Rachel had no hesitation in wanting Vianca by her side as they take this next big step.

Lena Stone

Bridesmaid

Lena and Rachel's friendship blossomed at a homeschool co-op back in 2006, where they hit it off instantly. Both small in stature, they were drawn to each other like magnets. Known for their endless chatter and shared mischief, they kept teachers on their toes with constant banter and note-passing. From getting in trouble at “school” to trick-or-treating long past childhood, their friendship has stood the test of time. Nowadays, you can find them enjoying quiet conversations over a cup of tea, cherishing the enduring friendship they've built since their early days of mischief and laughter.

Anna Laura Ladefoged Pedersen

Bridesmaid

Anna and Rachel's friendship began in 2013 when Anna arrived in America as a foreign exchange student. Eager to immerse herself in American culture, Anna found a kindred spirit in Rachel, who was thrilled to introduce her to all things 'Merican! Throughout Anna's exchange year, they bonded over soccer, trick-or-treating adventures, Black Friday shopping, and indulging in both classic American fare like Chick-fil-A (Rachel’s favorite place in the world) and local gems like La Carreta. Most Friday nights were spent with their friend Vianca, hanging out and laughing the night away. Despite Rachel's admittedly subpar pen pal skills, their friendship has endured over the years. They've made a pact to keep visiting each other, and aside from the unavoidable interruptions during the global shutdown, they've faithfully kept that promise.

Keigan Knight

Ring Bearer

Ryland Carter

Ring Bearer

Serenity Knight

Flower Girl