Wedding PartyWedding Party

Stephanie McPhaulStephanie McPhaul

Maid of Honor

Stephanie and I have been riding the friendship wave for over a decade now—and what a ride it’s been! We first crossed paths back in 2013 as wide-eyed freshmen at App State, but the real magic kicked off the summer before our senior year when we became roommates. From that point on, we were basically glued at the hip. Now we’re 30 (how did that happen?!), and the tradition lives on: every year, we celebrate our back-to-back birthdays with a trip—our own little festival of adventure, laughter, and memory-making. Whether it’s a spontaneous weekend escape or a deep dive into a new culture, we’ve collected stories and inside jokes that could fill a book (or at least a very entertaining group chat). Our friendship has grown with us—and let’s be honest, we’re still just getting started.

Tyler SmithTyler Smith

Best Man

Tyler is the groom’s younger brother and the proud middle child of the bunch. A hardworking dad to two amazing kids, he somehow still manages to be the life of the party—always ready with a joke and a big laugh. Whether he’s cracking us up or showing up for his family in a million quiet ways, Tyler brings so much heart and energy wherever he goes. I’m beyond excited to officially call him my brother!

Rachel GrosseRachel Grosse

Bridesmaid

The only time I ever brought home a D‑ was in civics class sophomore year — which also happens to be where I met Rachel. I honestly can’t remember a single thing the teacher said, but I do remember laughing so hard with Rach that we’d nearly fall out of our chairs on a daily basis. Fifteen years later—after dramatic breakups, ridiculous fights, and somehow running out of money in Europe (??)—she’s still my ride-or-die. My oldest friend. The one I’d 100% still pretend to like chocolate cake for if she baked it for me. Even though she’s over 1,000 miles away now, every time we get on the phone, we talk for hours about literally nothing—and it’s like no time has passed. Still silly. Still nonstop giggles. Still us.

Marcellus SmithMarcellus Smith

Groomsman

Marcellus is the youngest of the brothers and recently became a proud new dad—his love for his son is seriously heart-melting. While he may be the baby of the family, don’t let that fool you—Marcellus has a protective streak, especially when it comes to his big brother. He’s watched our relationship grow with a cautious (but caring!) eye, and it’s clear he just wants the best for everyone he loves. I’m so lucky to be gaining not just a brother-in-law, but a loyal little guardian too.

Dr. Carmen ReichleDr. Carmen Reichle

Bridesmaid

Carmen and I go way back—like, Joe Bryan’s class freshman year back—and we’ve been laughing our way through life ever since. Whether we’re blasting country music, showing up to parties (where I dance and Carm firmly does not), or just cracking each other up over the most random stuff, we’re always having a good time. One of my favorite memories? The first time I ever visited Richmond. Carm invited me to see this local folk artist, and somewhere between the music, the food, and the city lights, I completely fell in love—with Richmond and the moment. That trip changed everything. She’s the reason I found the courage to take the leap and move here on my own. Even now, whenever we hang out or catch up, it’s all good vibes, inside jokes, and full-on belly laughs. She’s been one of the best parts of my life—and let’s be honest, nothing beats a friend who lets you sing country at the top of your lungs without judgment.

Darryl ThaxtonDarryl Thaxton

Groomsman

Alyssa Sanchez WrightAlyssa Sanchez Wright

Bridesmaid

Alyssa is the little sister I didn’t know I needed—she just showed up in my life sophomore year in the Living Learning Center and never left. Honestly, I can’t even remember a version of life without her in it. One day she casually announced, “I’m your best friend,” and that was that. No take-backs. Since then, she’s been my rock, my hype woman, and the person who can make me laugh right when I’m about to lose it. She’s seen me at my messiest and still sticks around—and that’s real love. Now she’s out here living her best life: a total boss as a lawyer and a wife (!!!). I couldn’t be prouder of who she’s become, but even more than that, I’m just so grateful she’s still the same Alyssa—funny, fierce, and always ready with a sarcastic comment or a snack.

Lewis WilliamsLewis Williams

Groomsman

Lewis and I may be five years apart, but we’ve always been close—close enough that sometimes it feels like the age gap never existed. Since day one, he’s had this quiet way of making people smile, whether it was crawling around as a baby giving everyone raspberries or, these days, slipping in just the right joke at just the right time. Even though he’s grown into this tall, calm, incredibly thoughtful guy—head of marketing at a successful startup and somehow wise beyond his years—he still has that younger brother sparkle that I’ll always see. He’s the perfect mix of old soul and little brother energy, and I love our easy banter that makes it feel like we just saw each other yesterday, even if it’s been weeks. It means the world to me that he’ll be up there with me when I say “I do.” He’s not one for the spotlight, but I hope he knows how proud I am to have him by my side—always.

Raylah SmithRaylah Smith

Flower Girl

Raylah is the groom’s niece and the undisputed little princess of the family. At just six years old, she’s already bursting with personality—charming everyone with her sweet smile and endless energy. Raylah doesn't need to say much lights up every room she walks into and melting every heart along the way.

Kayleb SmithKayleb Smith

Ring Bearer

Kayleb is the groom’s son and my soon-to-be step-son, and our adorable ring bearer. At three years old, he’s full of energy, joy, and just the right amount of mischief—always keeping us on our toes in the best way. His laugh is completely infectious, the kind that makes everyone around him smile without even realizing it. With his curious spirit and that playful twinkle in his eye, Kayleb brings so much light and laughter to our lives—and I feel so lucky to be gaining such a special little guy in mine.

Raygan SmithRaygan Smith

Wedding Planner

Officially my sister-in-law, unofficially my hype woman, momspiration, and partner in Smith family survival tactics. Married to my fiancé’s brother and somehow keeping up with two energetic kids like it’s her superpower, Raygan is equal parts sweet, hilarious, and endlessly generous. From day one, she welcomed me into the Smith crew with open arms, quick wit, and zero judgment — which, let’s be honest, is the best kind of welcome. Whether she’s chasing toddlers or dishing out the real talk, Raygan does it all with heart, humor, and hair that somehow always looks amazing.