Matron of Honor
Maggie is Katie's younger sister. Katie was lucky to be a co-maid of honor in Maggie's 2021 wedding and now Maggie gets to do the same for her! They've been super close all of their lives and continue to be even though they don't live nearby each other now. Maggie lives in New Lenox, IL now so they've enjoyed being able to spend more time together throughout this wedding planning process. Even between busy schedules and Maggie's new baby, they always find time to chat and plan and stay close!
Best Man
Ryan and Jake met living in the same cluster in college - to say it was a perfect pairing is an understatement. Through countless nights out, more shenanigans than you can count, and several years of living together, they've continued to be friends and laugh about the same old jokes as always. Though Jake lives in Florida, they are able to stay in touch while playing video games and in a constant and always goofy group chat with Jake's brother, Luke. Ryan is honored to have Jake as his best man.
Maid of Honor
Anna is Katie's youngest sister. Even though they have a 4 year gap in age, Katie and Anna are extremely close and couldn't imagine not hanging out at least a few times a week! They're both nurses and Katie successfully convinced Anna to transfer to PACU so they could work in similar units (with the dream of working in the same place someday). They've traveled together, they got puppies together, and now they get to celebrate together! Anna is probably responsible for most of the crafty decorations at the wedding so big thanks for all of her help and support :)
Groomsman
Ryan had the good fortune of meeting Luke when he came to NIU a year after Ryan and Jake met. The shenanigans that Ryan and Jake had were no match for when the three of them got together and they quickly became trouble-makers for the remainder of their time at NIU. Ryan is lucky enough to stay in touch with Luke through games and texting. Luke is a nurse too so he and Katie have been able to connect about the ups and downs of nursing when they've been lucky enough to hang out in the past! Ryan is honored to have Luke as his best boy.
Bridesman
Albeit slightly nontraditional, Katie couldn't imagine having her sisters stand by her side on her wedding day but letting her brother leave her at the end of the aisle! Jack (better known as Bubba) has always been the baby of the family; although the oldest sibling/youngest sibling rivalry has been strong, Katie has always had a soft spot in her heart for her baby brother. Even though Bubba lives in CO now, they've gotten to enjoy time together when Katie has been able to visit him in CO and the times when he is able to come home. No matter how far away he is, Katie will always watch out for him and he gets to do the same for her on her wedding day now!
Officiant
Katie and Ryan have had the fortune of getting to know Stew as Katie's (and Ryan's future) brother-in-law! He's been officially part of the family since May 2021 but has been around since before Katie and Ryan started dating. When thinking about who would be a fitting officiant and could bear the responsibility of uniting Katie and Ryan in marriage, Stew fit the bill perfectly. His sense of humor and witty charm will make for a wonderful ceremony (and if he messes up, his wife and matron of honor is standing nearby to keep him on track!)
Brides-dog
The prettiest little lady - Nova couldn’t be left out of the bridal party! She’s been part of the family for 3 years and is so thrilled that her paw-rents are finally tying the knot. She loves long walks, playing with her cousins, and any kind of yummy treats.
Grooms-dog
Known by lots of name - most often “Little Buddy” - Apollo has been nothing but joy for the past 3 years. He is a picky eater, just like his dad, but has never met a toy he doesn’t like. Apollo is honored to be part of this special occasion and can’t wait to give lots of licks and kisses to anyone who will give him some pets after the ceremony!