Caralyssa & Zackery
Wedding Party
Melody Alford
Mother of the Groom
Zackery credits everything he knows about being a great man to one person—his mother, Melody. As a single mother of four boys, Melody worked tirelessly to provide, protect, and guide her sons toward a better future. Her strength, sacrifice, and unwavering work ethic became the foundation of the man Zackery is today. He proudly says his drive and determination come directly from her example. Having Melody in attendance for his wedding means everything to him—because there is no celebration of who he is without honoring the woman who raised him.
Donald Gum
Bride's Escort
Growing up with Donald by my side meant always having someone who pushed me to be better. Our dad and grandma raised me with love and strength, and when life changed, Donald stepped up when I needed him most. His steady support and quiet leadership helped shape the woman I am today. His discipline and loyalty taught me what it means to show up—for family and for yourself. Watching him be an amazing father to my nephews only deepens my admiration for the man he is. Having him walk me down the aisle isn’t just tradition — it’s a tribute to everything he’s done for me. I’m so lucky to have him by my side.
Caroline Gum
Grandmother of the Bride
Some people are born into a role, and others rise into it with grace and love. My grandmother, Caroline, didn’t just care for me—she raised me. In the absence of my mother, she stepped in without hesitation and gave me everything a child could need: strength, kindness, guidance, and unconditional love. She has been my role model, my protector, and the most constant presence in my life. On this day, when I take a new step forward, I do so with her handprint on my heart and her love carrying me down the aisle in spirit. I am endlessly grateful to honor her not only as my grandmother, but as the incredible woman who shaped me into the bride I am today.
Nicole Webb
Maid of Honor
Nicole and I met in middle school, and from that moment, we became inseparable. From late-night sleepovers to laughing until we couldn’t breathe, we turned everyday moments into memories I’ll cherish forever. Life hasn’t always been easy, but Nicole has been my constant, standing by my side through every challenge and curveball. She’s always pushed me to be my best and has shown me what true friendship is all about. Nicole is a beautiful person, inside and out, and I’m beyond grateful for the bond we share.
Emma Ewing
Bridesmaid
Emma and I met while working at a child development center in college, and our friendship began in the most unexpected way—when I noticed the funny name she had saved in her phone for her partner. From that moment, we started talking daily and haven’t stopped since. Emma has the sweetest soul and a kindness that lights up every room she enters. She is truly a blessing in my life, and I’m so thankful to know her. Sharing this next chapter of my life with her is a gift I’ll always treasure.
Audrey Moreno Jarve
Bridesmaid
Audrey and I met during orientation at my current job, and within just a few sentences, it was clear we had an instant connection. It felt like we had known each other forever, and our bond has only grown stronger since. Audrey is the true definition of beauty and grace, carrying herself with a strength that inspires everyone around her. From the moment she entered my life, she’s shown me the importance of self-love and the true meaning of sisterhood. Having her by my side on this special day means more to me than words can express.
Lindsey Hendrix
Bridesmaid
Lindsey and I first met at my current job, where her desk was on the opposite side of the office from mine. One of us struck up a conversation, and before we knew it, we had spent two hours talking—still being across the room from each other! Lindsey is one of the most caring and selfless people I’ve ever met. She has the biggest heart and an incredible work ethic that I deeply admire. I’m truly grateful to have her as a friend.
Justine Gum
Bridesmaid
For those who don’t know, Justine is my sister-in-law and the incredible mother of my two favorite little boys. She came into my life during a difficult time and helped me turn things around. Justine opened her home and heart to me, offering support and guidance that helped shape me into the woman I am today. Her strength, confidence, and inspiring will are qualities I deeply admire. I am truly blessed to have her by my side, not just as family but as a constant source of love and encouragement.
Randy Gum
Honor Attendant
My Uncle Randy has been a solid and dependable presence in my life, offering caring kindness and unwavering support to our family. His steady strength and gentle heart have meant so much to me. I am truly honored to have him walking alongside my grandmother on this special day as we come together to celebrate family and the love that unites us.
Melissa Gum
Honor Attendant
My Aunt Melissa is one of the kindest souls who has always been there with unwavering support, no matter the circumstance. Her kindness and care have been a quiet but meaningful presence in my life. It is a true honor to have her walking alongside my grandmother on this special day as we come together to celebrate the love and bond of family.
Eugene Whitlow
Best Man
Eugene and Zackery grew up on the same street in Del City, where their friendship began so long ago, neither of them actually remembers meeting—it’s just always been. Their bond was built on 65¢ fountain sodas from the corner store, reckless bike rides through the neighborhood, and a lawn mowing business that may or may not have had more snacks than profits. From door-to-door hustling to lifelong loyalty, Eugene has always been by Zackery’s side. He’s not just a friend—he’s family. A man Zackery fully trusts, respects, and is incredibly proud to have standing beside him as his best man.
Harley Kincaid
Groomsman
Harley and Zackery met in Stillwater and instantly bonded over the important things in life: video games, Marvel movies, and who gets the last slice of pizza. Their friendship is full of laughs, wild opinions, and constant advice-giving—whether it’s about life or which superhero would win in a fight. (For the record, Iron Man would absolutely destroy Batman. No debate. Sorry to our DC friends… actually, no we’re not.) Their connection is built on mutual respect, nonstop banter, and a shared love of all things nerdy—with just enough chaos to keep things interesting.
Justin Gum
Groomsman
Justin and Zackery bonded over their shared love for the OKC Thunder and all things college football—though their loyalty gets a little divided on Saturdays. Zack bleeds crimson for the OU Sooners, while Justin proudly reps the OSU Cowboys. Naturally, this leads to constant trash talk, plenty of game-day banter, and the occasional “friendly” disagreement. Justin’s the kind of guy who lights up any room—hilarious, outgoing, and always ready with a joke (or a Cowboy comeback). Whether it’s yelling at the Thunder through the TV or arguing over which school really runs Oklahoma, their friendship is full of laughs, loyalty, and a lot of sports-fueled chaos.
Ricardo Navarro
Groomsman
Ricardo and Zackery work together, but their friendship goes way beyond the Big Mac. Ricardo is constantly pushing Zackery to level up—always yelling, “Move your f*ing drive-thru!” and reminding him to be a businessman first, manager second, and chaos coordinator always. In return, Zackery serves as Ricardo’s unofficial tech support hotline. Whether it’s setting up apps or trying (still) to recover his iCloud account, there’s always a tech emergency… and hopefully it’s resolved before the wedding. They balance each other out perfectly—one bringing the hustle, the other bringing the Wi-Fi password.
Garrett Gum
Groomsman
Like Justin, Garrett shares a love for college football—though he’s all about the OSU Cowboys, while Zackery reps the OU Sooners. Their rivalry brings nonstop jokes and playful trash talk, especially during football season, and it’s always entertaining. Garrett’s the kind of guy who brings good vibes wherever he goes. He’s full of energy, constantly cracking jokes, and makes sure there’s never a dull moment. His friendship with Zackery is easy, fun, and just the right mix of competitive and loyal. We’re so thankful Garrett will be standing beside us on our big day—he’s truly one of a kind.