Caley & Matt
Wedding Party
Bethany Russell
Maid of Honor
Bethany is the epitome of Christ-like love. (I’m still not convinced she isn’t my guardian angel.) She loves fiercely, serves whole-heartedly, and blesses everyone she comes in contact with. Her heart is so pure and her love for the Lord overflows into everything that she does. Not long after meeting Bethany, I knew her friendship would be one I would treasure for a very long time. No phone call with Bethany is complete if we haven’t laughed until our sides hurt, cried (both happy and sad) tears, and poured out our hearts to one another. I have looked up to her in so many ways; she is wise beyond her years and one of the most selfless people that I know. Her prayers have blessed me so much through the years, and I am so honored to have her standing beside me as I marry Matt.
Ben Preyss
Best Man
“In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" - Ben Preyss (Paul the Apostle from Ephesians). Ben quoted this to me one night when we were both in our bunk beds as kids and I thought, wow, what a wise person my brother is. I was young at the time so it wasn't until a few months later that I realized this wasn't my brother's saying, but was from the Bible (he failed to tell me that at the time). Ben has always been my role model growing up and the biggest influence on me. To have a brother point you to the Lord is such a blessing. He brightens up every room he walks into and is the 'best man' I know.
Kaitlyn Peterson
Bridesmaid
When you find a friend who likes the movie “The Emperor’s New Groove” as much as you do, you stick with that person. :) Kaitlyn and I first met when she visited Grove City College and stayed with her sister, Bethany. From that first visit I knew we would be friends, and our friendship continued as she became my sorority “Little.” Kaitlyn is someone who leaves her special touch wherever she goes. She’s creative beyond measure and artistic in every way, and her gifts are a blessing to those around her. She is gentle, kind, and fiercely loyal. Her heart of gold shines through her beautiful smile and her sincerity is evident in everything she does.
Ryan Kolesar
Groomsman
"There are 3 types of people in this world. People you can count on and people who can count." -Jeremy from Speed Strength Training Ryan is most definitely a guy you can count on (and I think he can count too). We have been friends since I was born. We grew up together and did everything together. We spent our summers as kids trying to break our record of most consecutive days we could sleep over at each other's houses (I think the record was 7 days). He is my closest friend and is the most inclusive person you will ever meet. He is always looking to have fun and ensure everyone else does too. A loyal friend who you can talk to about anything. A true blessing to have in my life.
Brittany Wenzell
Bridesmaid
When I think of Brittany, I think of laughter. A conversation with Brittany will leave you both laughing at her humor, and touched by her kind and sincere heart! We first bonded over her being my “Big Sis” in college (making secret “codes”, watching funny YouTube videos, and eating peachy rings late at night...we were cool), and our friendship has only grown through the years. Brittany sees the positive in every situation, which makes her a joy to be around. She is equal parts witty, caring, thoughtful, and joyful. Her genuine heart makes her a trusted friend, and her laugh is contagious!
John Erickson
Groomsman
"Run it up Urban! Leave no doubt." - Remember the Titans (but modified for OSU). John quickly became close to our family while dating my sister (now married) when we learned of his love for THE Ohio State Buckeyes. It wasn't long after I met John that I grew to really admire him (mostly because he was dating my sister and wasn't sure how he does it...kidding Lauren :) ). He is one of the smartest, most hardworking, patient guys I know. He is always willing to reach out and to help out no matter what. He is always great and easy to talk to. He has been such a blessing in my life and I am blessed to call him my brother.
Sarah Cessar
Bridesmaid
If we had a dollar for every time someone mistook us for sisters! Always up for an adventure and a lover of all things athletic, Sarah is someone you can’t help but smile when you’re around! From freshman dorm neighbors to senior year roomies, we’ve shared lots of laughs and late nights. Thanks to Sarah, I woke up every morning in time to make it to school while I was student teaching, and she even got me to explore all of the sights, sounds, and smells of “nature” (something that was new to me). Her joyful spirit always lights up the room and her humility is truly beautiful.
Nick "Honey" Spring
Groomsman
"What do you call a cow with no legs? Ground beef." This joke is what cemented my friendship with Nick back in high school. We grew up knowing one another through my cousin Ryan but it was when I told this joke that Nick accepted me as a friend. Nick and I lived together for a year (and a half I guess) here in Chicago and it was extremely fun. Like Ryan, he is very outgoing and always makes sure that everyone is both invited and having a good time. For a quiet guy like me, Nick was the perfect counterweight helping me branch out more. He is one of the funniest, most loyal and hardworking guys I know. A true friend that I am very grateful to have gotten to know more of over the last 4 years.