Wedding Party
Ashley Gentry
Maid of Honor
Ashley and Sammi first crossed paths at Ball State University while studying to become athletic trainers. Both were initially nervous about walking to class alone—until fate (and an unforgettable moment) intervened. Sammi accidentally let out a huge fart, instantly breaking the ice and sparking a lifelong friendship. From that moment on, they were inseparable. What started as two classmates sharing nervous walks to class quickly turned into late-night Disney movie marathons, way too much pizza, and an endless series of inside jokes—especially their mission to earn “the look” from Dr. Hankemeier with their most unhinged acronyms. Living together for over three years only solidified their bond, transforming them from friends into family. They became known as “the twins” because, honestly, if you saw one, the other was never far behind. Through the years, Ashley and Sammi have tackled everything side by side—grueling athletic training courses, difficult relationships, a global pandemic, and their fair share of frustrating jobs. No matter what life threw at them, they always had each other. And now, after years of laughter, adventures, and unwavering support, Ashley couldn’t be more honored to stand by Sammi’s side as she marries the love of her life.
Katey Compton
Bridesmaid
Katey Compton is Sammi’s younger cousin, and the two share a lifetime of cherished memories. Growing up, they spent countless hours playing games like Hotel and Library at Grandma’s house, where Katey—being the youngest of the four cousins—often served as the peacemaker between the two strongest personalities. Known for her kind heart and gentle spirit, Katey has always been the sweetest of the cousins, rarely having a negative word to say about anyone. Now as adults, she and Sammi remain close, bonding over unsolicited penguin videos on social media, decorating Grandma’s house for Christmas, sneaking off to Muncie for their annual Black Friday shopping trips, and discussing books at every holiday gathering. Most recently, they’ve been obsessing over The Fourth Wing series together, eagerly dissecting every plot twist and debating who his brother is. IYKYK. If you have not read it yet, then what are you doing with your life?? Katey’s warmth and kindness shine through in everything she does, and her love has been a constant source of light in Sammi’s life. Having her be part of the wedding celebration makes the day even more special.
Ashley StAmour
Bridesmaid
Ashley attended Carroll Jr.-Sr. High School just two years behind Chris. Later, she and Chris became colleagues, teaching together in the Junior High wing of the school. During this time, they got to know each other well. Ashley first met Sammi in 2019 when she joined Carroll as the new athletic trainer. At the time, Ashley and her husband were coaching cross country and track. In 2020, as they navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashley and the team became a safe haven, and a strong friendship blossomed. When Ashley’s son was born—just one day before Sammi’s birthday—it seemed destined that the two would grow even closer. With Ashley knowing both Sammi and Chris so well, she became the behind-the-scenes matchmaker, helping these two clueless lovebirds find their way to each other. Without Ashley’s unofficial match making, this day might never have happened. Her efforts ensured Chris and Sammi didn’t friend-zone each other for eternity, and for that, everyone is grateful.
Colton Compton
Bridesman
Colton Compton is Sammi’s younger brother, and she has quite literally known him his entire life. Growing up, the two had their fair share of sibling battles—bickering endlessly and even settling arguments with boxing gloves and wrestling matches. But amidst the chaos, there were plenty of fun moments too. They swapped pajamas, rode bikes for hours, made a mess of cookies while baking, and bonded over epic Lord of the Rings and Star Wars marathons. As adults, Colton has become one of Sammi’s biggest supporters—often from the shadows. Though their love language may involve calling each other less-than-flattering names, their bond is unshakable, and they would go to battle for each other without hesitation. During much of the wedding planning, Colton was deployed in the Middle East, yet he still found ways to support Sammi—from sending hilarious Snapchats to surprising her with a giant Lego set to brighten her days. Now that he’s home, everyone is beyond thrilled to have him here for the big day. His only request? “Don’t put me in an f****** dress.”
Joe Smith
Groomsman
Michael Goodrich
Groomsman
Chris and Mike’s friendship dates back to their freshman year at Purdue, where they met in English 106. With the same major, a shared love for basketball, and a connection through their high school athletic conferences, they quickly became close friends. However, Mike insists their first encounter happened much earlier—during their high school years when they both managed basketball teams and crossed paths at the Clinton Central Holiday Basketball Tournament. According to Mike, he vividly remembers Chris sporting a blue dress shirt with a basketball tie. But let’s be honest—Mike never misses an opportunity to tell a good story! Over nearly 20 years of friendship, Mike and Chris have gone from study buddies to colleagues, even spending several years working together at Carroll. Mike first served as the assistant principal at Carroll before leaving for another opportunity, only to return in 2020 as the athletic director. Of course, if you ask Chris, he’s been carrying Mike on his back the entire time! Jokes aside, their bond has remained strong, whether it’s sharing meals before sectional games, hanging out with friends, or supporting the Carroll athletes on game day. We’re thrilled to have Mike standing beside Chris on this special day, supporting his longtime friend (and one of his favorite athletic trainers) as they tie the knot!
Blake Betzner
Groomsman
Chris and Blake’s friendship began around ten years ago through a shared connection with Blake’s wife. Since they were part of the same church community throughout school, Chris and Halee got to know each other well. When Blake entered the picture, it didn’t take long for Chris to build a friendship with him, especially as they spent time serving together at Crossroads Community Christian Church. Over the past four years, their friendship deepened even further when Blake joined Carroll as the Head Football Coach and a history teacher. Working just a wall apart and coaching together created countless opportunities to grow closer, both professionally and personally. Sammi first met Blake when he arrived at Carroll. In their first conversation, he promised to be the best coach she had ever worked with. He more than lived up to that promise. Blake always went out of his way to make sure Sammi felt like an important part of the program. Beyond the walls of Carroll, Blake and Halee have been an incredible example of love, dedication, and faith. Their commitment to their family, their school, and their relationship with God has been inspiring to witness. We are incredibly grateful to have Blake not just as a friend but as someone standing beside us in support as we begin this new chapter in December.
Jason Seward
Groomsman
Jason Seward is Chris’s older brother—and a Christmas wish come true. When Jason was young, all he wanted was a new bike and a baby brother. Eleven years later, Christopher arrived, completing the Seward family. Like most brothers, Jason and Chris spent plenty of time roughhousing, picking on each other, and creating memories that would last a lifetime. One story that still gets told is the time Jason accidentally broke Chris’s arm. Chris was lying peacefully on the couch when Jason scooped him up—only to trip over a pair of shoes and sent Chris crashing down. Their dad nearly killed them—and Jason still hasn’t lived it down. Of course, not all their memories involved a trip for x-rays. They spent countless hours in the basement setting up toy farm sets and creating their own dream farm. Even now, they still enjoy playing Farm Simulator together on their gaming consoles, proving that some traditions never fade. As Chris got older, he was able to spend a few summers during college working construction with Jason. Those summers were filled with hard work, way too much Mountain Dew, hours of sermons on the radio, and more life lessons than he can count. Having Jason standing by our side means the world to us. His example of loyalty, faith, and family has left an incredible impact, and we are so grateful to celebrate this next chapter with him.
Dan Butcher
Officiant
Dan has been a part of Chris’s life from the very beginning. Just days after he was born, Dan started at the family's church. They later followed Dan when he founded what is now known as Crossroads Community Christian Church. After the passing of Chris’s father, Dan stepped into a fatherly role, offering emotional and spiritual guidance as Chris grew. Through the years, they shared not only challenges but also many moments of joy and laughter. One memorable tradition was Chris, from the balcony, holding up signs to keep Dan’s sermons from stretching too long. Their bond extended beyond church, as Dan often traveled with Chris while he coached JV baseball. These years of coaching side by side ultimately played a part in bringing this wedding to life. Sammi met Dan while he was coaching baseball. On a whim, she pulled him aside to confide in him about her feelings for Chris after years of friendship. Dan, deeply believing they were a match made by the Lord, assured her that everything would work out—he only had one piece of advice: be patient. After speaking with Chris, he stepped back and left it in God’s hands. A year later, that patience was rewarded when Chris and Sammi finally found their way to each other. From the very beginning of their relationship, Dan has been a steadfast spiritual supporter, helping them grow together in love and faith. We couldn’t think of a more perfect person to stand alongside Joe in marrying Chris and Sammi this December.
Joe Boggs
Officiant
Pastor Joe is originally from the Lafayette area and began his ministry at Bringhurst United Methodist Church. He and his wife, Melissa, are incredibly close with their children—Hannah and Joseph—as well as the many international exchange students they’ve welcomed into their home over the years. Joe’s heart for ministry extends beyond his family and congregation, reaching into the community through service and care. Sammi was raised at Asbury United Methodist Church, and when she returned to Portland in 2023, they decided to visit one Sunday. Before the service even began, Pastor Joe noticed Chris’s Carroll hat and immediately struck up a conversation. His warmth and friendliness made them feel genuinely welcomed. Then came the sermon—on tithing and church finances. Joe joked that his biggest fear was someone showing up for the first time in over a decade, only to hear him talk about money. Unknowingly, Chris and Sammi had fulfilled that fear. But they figured if they enjoyed a sermon about finances, they’d probably enjoy anything he had to say. That day sparked a connection that quickly became a meaningful friendship. His spiritual guidance and friendship have strengthened their relationship with the Lord. His calm presence has brought peace, and his preaching has deepened their understanding of Scripture. We are incredibly grateful that Pastor Joe will stand alongside Dan in launching the next chapter of Chris and Sammi’s journey together this December.
Lucas Seward
Usher
Lucas Seward is one of Chris’s nephews and a freshman at Madison Grant. He is dedicated baseball player, just like his FAVORITE uncle. His passion for the game keeps him busy, but he always makes time for family. Lucas has known his uncle Chris all his life and has had the pleasure of getting to know Sammi over the past two years. In that time, he and Sammi have formed quite the bond, particularly over their shared love of card games. Together, they have earned the title of the family’s “dream team,” always partnering up for euchre and creating all kinds of mischief during intense Uno matches—though their win record might suggest otherwise. Lucas is also a valued member of Sammi’s cookie-making crew. He takes his role seriously, always washing his hands, rolling up his sleeves, and jumping in to help whenever there's dough to be mixed or baked. His enthusiasm and willingness to pitch in make every baking session even more fun. We are so grateful to have Lucas standing by our side as we celebrate our big day. His energy, laughter, and love for family make every moment more special, and we can’t wait to share this occasion with him!
Mason Seward
Usher
Mason Seward is one of Chris’s nephews and will be graduating from Madison Grant in 2026. A dedicated golfer, he spends much of his free time practicing his swing. When he’s not on the course, he can usually be found at home, hanging out with the cats and enjoying some well-earned relaxation. Mason has, of course, known Chris his whole life. Since Sammi joined the picture a couple of years ago, we've shared countless hours playing games, baking, running through corn mazes, and making memories together. While his brother Lucas might take on the role of assistant baker, Mason proudly holds the title of favorite taste tester. In fact, his first question upon seeing Chris or Sammi is almost always, “Where are the cookies?” He never shies away from a homemade dessert—cupcakes, cookies, pie, you name it, he’s tried it. And when it came to selecting wedding desserts, Mason took his job seriously, personally sampling and approving each one. So, if you have any complaints… well, just know you’re wrong. We’re so excited to have Mason standing with us on our big day. His sense of humor, love for family, and expert dessert judgment make every moment more fun, and we can’t wait to celebrate together!
Owen and Cole Waiss
Ring Bearers
Owen and Cole Waiss are Chris’s great-nephews and two of the cutest members of the wedding party. Their parents, Tyler and Shannon, have been a part of our live for years, and we’re thrilled to have their boys join in the celebration. Owen is four years old and an expert in all things Pixar—if it involves talking toys, speedy race cars, or friendly monsters, he’s all in. He’s also a big fan of his family’s two cats and can often be found giving them lots of attention (whether they like it or not). Cole, who just turned two, is a little water baby. Whether it's bath time, pool time, or just a puddle on the driveway, if there’s water around, Cole is in it with a smile. These two brothers are growing fast and love each other fiercely. Watching them interact—with all their giggles, adventures, and occasional chaos—is a reminder of just how sweet family can be. We can’t wait to see Owen and Cole walk (or run, or dance) down the aisle. Their joy, energy, and tiny tuxes are sure to steal the show and bring plenty of smiles to our big day!