Wedding Party
Abby
Bride
Currently living in Austin TX but originally from Des Moines IA! Met Casey, the love of my life, in Austin and I love getting out and trying new things whether that’s a new restaurant, hobby, activity, etc! I’m very competitive when it comes to anything and everything, I’m obsessed with cooking competition shows, and Peach, my corgi daughter, is my everything 🤍 Now let’s party!! 🥂💍
Casey Helsel
Groom
While Cottage Grove, Oregon, will always be my roots, Austin is where I've truly found my home. It's also where I met Abby, and together we've created a life together with music concerts, shared laughter, new restaurant adventures, and moments spent by the water. And, of course, I'm dedicated to being the best 'dog dad' to Peach. I'm incredibly grateful for my parents, Ken and Bonnie, my brother Kyle, sister-in-law Kara, and my four wonderful nieces and nephews. I'm so excited to marry Abby and become a part of her incredible family. We are both so grateful that you're all here to share this moment with us.
Amanda
Maid of Honor
Amanda is currently living in Ames, IA, where she is working and pursuing her master’s degree at Iowa State University. She loves trying new recipes, all things basketball, and spending time with friends, family, and her girlfriend, Morgan. Her and Morgan have two kitties who love to cause trouble!
Kirk Dieke
Best Man
Currently living in Lebanon, Oregon with my wife Kaitlyn and our two golden retrievers; Harlow and Honey! I currently own a mustang shop and that keeps me busy and out of trouble… well it keeps me busy! When I can get out of there I love to play and watch sports, catch up with friends and family and we love to be on the lake boating under the sun. What’s crazy about my life is that so many of my favorite memories have Casey in them. I’ve know Casey since the 6th grade and any time I think of a great memory or a moment in my life that meant something to me, Casey was there. He stood as my best man when I married Kaitlyn, and I'm incredibly honored to return the favor as he marries Abby, his best friend.
Megan
Matron of Honor
Megan lives in Des Moines, IA, where she enjoys spending time outside, teaching yoga classes, and hanging out with family and friends. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Drake, and they have a little girl named Willow (who is their entire world)! 🤍
Kyle Helsel
Groomsman
For those who don't know me, I'm Kyle, Casey's brother. I've put down roots right here in our hometown of Cottage Grove, Oregon, with my wife, Kara, and our four amazing kids. Growing up with Casey was truly something special. We shared a big upstairs room, and more importantly, a bond that's only grown stronger over the years. From bike rides and camping trips to tubing wars on the boat, air-soft battles, and every sport imaginable, we did it ALL together. Those memories forged a foundation of brotherhood and friendship that means the world to me. Watching him now as an incredible uncle to my kids – always bringing love, laughter, and endless energy – makes me immensely proud of the man he's become. I couldn't be happier to see him start this exciting new chapter with Abby!
Kaari
Matron of Honor
In the hallowed halls of Summit Middle School, Kaari and Abby’s friendship was born, messy but unforgettable. Years of volleyball and a shared sense of humor only cemented their bond. While Abby was always going to move on to bigger and brighter places, Kaari moved a whopping fifteen minutes from home, settling in West Des Moines, Iowa, with her husband Danny and their sweet little pup Reyna. "Ketchup stains, subwoefers, and Peach. It's like the start of a bad joke except its the outline for my MOH speech. Fingers crossed I can keep it together!!"
Ethan Zickel
Groomsman
Ethan, currently lives in Leesburg, VA where he spends his days contributing to the defense industry (yes, one of those jobs he can't talk about). When he's not securing our freedom, he's indulging in fine bourbon, exquisite wine, and cheering on the Oregon State Beavers. A passionate golfer, Ethan's dominance on the course – a fact Casey can attest to, having never tasted victory against him. Casey says, "that's pending."
Christian Wasilk
Groomsman
Always on the move, my location is a perfect ice breaker for a conversation. I've earned a black belt in tequila shots, a PhD in 'learning from experience,' and deep desire to say 'Hell yeah, brother!" "Casey and I forged our friendship as fraternity brothers at Oregon State, which led to the unforgettable roommate years after college from 2016-2020 before he moved to Texas. We've got a treasure trove of memories: Watershed adventures, that unforgettable Dame Lillard game-winner, and a few... 'character-building' moments. No matter the distance or time, we always pick up right where we left off, a friendship I deeply value."
Madeline
Bridesmaid
Madeline lives in Des Moines, IA with her fiance Jose, 2 dogs and 9 chickens! She works as an Elementary School Counselor and loves gardening, painting, and reading in her free time. Madeline met Abby back in 8th grade and has been making her laugh ever since. From being volleyball teammates to becoming one of her best friends over 10 years ago, Madeline can't wait to celebrate the beautiful bride to be!
Jordan Hamilton
Groomsman
Oregon born and bred, Jordan embodies the spirit of the Pacific Northwest. His friendship with Casey, spanning several years, solidified during their roommate days in Portland from 2018-2020, forging an unbreakable bond. United by a love of hunting, music, and cold beer, they've built a connection on laughter and shared passions for life's simple joys. Whether in the wilderness or enjoying good tunes, their friendship is a testament that stands the test of time.
Natalie
Bridesmaid
Currently living in Newport Beach, CA but am originally from Des Moines, IA. I have known Abby my entire life, as we are lucky to be cousins born less than a year apart. I enjoy all things outdoors, active and adventurous! My favorite place is the beach and I love creating memories through travel. See y’all on the dance floor!
Stephen Homa
Groomsman
Stephen and Casey's friendship is a true Austin original. They both moved to Austin around the same time and become buddies from mutual connections. They bonded over the city's incredible music scene, created legendary memories riding electric scooters through downtown after late nights at the bars, and share a deep appreciation for the iconic P-Terry's burger. Beyond the fun, their friendship is built on unwavering support and a genuine commitment to being there for each other, no matter what.
Rachel
Bridesmaid
I have known Abby since she was a brace-faced teenager in Iowa & now we’re both living it up in Austin, Texas together! With over a decade of friendship we have so many great memories from giggling at volleyball tournaments to enjoying cocktails on patios & of course our annual girl’s trips. I’m so excited to be a part of Abby & Casey’s special day. Here’s to the future Helsel’s! Let’s get rowdy!
Sam St. Germain
Groomsman
Sam is a co-founder of a real estate development company operating in Texas. He met Casey in Austin, and they’ve been great friends ever since. When he’s not working on new projects, he enjoys hunting and eating the great food Austin has to offer. Casey and Sam have an epic hunting story together that will always be remembered. Also a fun fact—Sam, Casey, and Steve all share the same birthday on August 21st, making birthday celebrations extra special. He’s thrilled to be celebrating this big day with such amazing friends and can’t wait for all the festivities ahead!
Hayley
Bridesmaid
Abby and I met playing 11U softball, where we quickly bonded over our shared competitive spirit and love for being downright goofy. While we may not have become the softball stars our dads once dreamed of, I’m forever grateful to have spent the years laughing and making memories with Abigail! My husband and I moved back to Johnston last year, where we’ve been enjoying the simple joys of life—spending time outdoors, tackling DIY projects, and spoiling our two beautiful (and very opinionated) children… our cats