Nikki & Joseph
Wedding Party
Joe Mendoza
Groom
Joe grew up in San Francisco and the Central Valley of CA. He joined the Army at 18 and retired after a fulfilling career. Joe moved back to CA and started his second career at the VA Hospitals. In 2015 Joe accepted a position in Albuquerque and started his passion of hiking on the local trails. His favorite hiking partner is Nikki and their 4 legged friends.
Nikki (Nicole) Chilson
Bride
Nikki grew up in rural South Dakota and ended up in Albuquerque after her initial career in the Army. She was looking forward to establishing roots in a spot that was not too big and not too small. She enjoys cycling and the outdoor activities of the area with the company of Joe and their fur herd.
Erica Windish
Maid of Honor
Nikki's closest friend and confidant, Erica is the best fit for the maid of honor role. She works in the real estate industry and knows how to bring things together. She is joined by Chris K, our favorite local couple. We have enjoyed celebrating everyday moments and special occassions with them throughout the years.
Ricky Kirkland
Best Man
Ricky is a close and respected comrade of Joe and Nikki from the New Mexico VA Healthcare System. He moved to Albuquerque from Chicago and is joined by Lorena. Ricky's a great person to ask about cruise travel and remains a die hard Dolphins fan. We are delighted to have him in our wedding and as a trusted friend.
Marissa Chilson
Bridesmaid
Marissa was the newest member of the Chilson family tree until today. She is married to Nikki's nephew, Dominick. Marissa and Nikki both enjoy their gardening hobby and have enjoyed meeting up for random family adventures and fun. Marissa's creativity and spirit made her an essential member of the bridal party.
Cora Chilson
Bridesmaid
Cora is Nikki's niece and favorite person to be around because of her smile and laugh. Cora has always displayed artistic talent and it's been a joy to watch her develop this into a skill. She's going to school for photography and displays her work on Instragram. She lives and works near Omaha, NE.
Wooby
Groomswoman
Wooby got to know Joe when she would stay with him during Nikki's Army Reserve travel. She and Joe hit it off from the start. Wooby liked going over to Joe's house because the carpet was so fun to run on, and he had a mini beanbag that she got to play with. She and Joe continue to be pals as she enjoys taking in the same TV programming as he does. In return, she spends all day guarding his shoes. It's a very special relationship.
Pogey
Groomsman
Pogey joined the family after Joe and Nikki moved in together. He brought his own spirit to the house and continues to charm everyone with his traditional corgi head tilts. Pogey brings continuous amusement and is still caught doing puppy behaviors at every opportunity. He is happy to have a new puppy (Mollie) in the house to join in his funny ways.