Matron of Honor
Whether we're being classy with our charcuterie boards at the vineyard or chugging a box of wine while watching reality TV, Alexia is one of those rare people who can make any time a good time! She constantly goes out of her way for everyone else - throwing parties, making cupcakes and sharing information on sales/coupons so others can share in her joy of finding the best deal. After meeting at a winter ale fest through mutual friends, she instantly became one of my favorite people and one of our cats' favorite babysitters. I'm blessed to have her as my friend and overjoyed to have her as my Matron of Honor!
Best Man
Mike’s been my best friend for over 15 years, which means he’s put up with me longer than any of my friends. We’ve been through thick and thin – from high school, to community college, to both of us moving away from Chicago and starting new adventures. I’m grateful we’ve kept in touch and helped each other through life’s trials and tribulations, whatever time zone we’re in. I’m proud to have Mike as my best man!
Bridesmaid
Even though she's (ironically) from Illinois originally, Jackie was the first friend Mark and I made in Idaho. One of the most kind, generous and selfless people I've ever met, Jackie has been such a positive and patient force in my life. I'm so happy that whoever it was that knew someone who knew someone that went to church with someone's mother's friend somehow connected us, and I'm excited to finally spend time together in our home state!
Best Man
The man, the myth, the legend, and my other best man. Andrew and I met at WZND (Illinois State’s student radio station) our senior year and clicked instantly (even though I got his name wrong the first few times). No matter how long it’s been since we’ve seen each other, we can always pick right back up where we left off. Andrew’s always got a good perspective on life, and I’m convinced that with enough time and drinks, we can solve the world’s problems!
Bridesmaid
If Mark did anything useful in college, it was befriending Steve who eventually married Kristina who instantly became one of my all-time favorites when I showed up in 2015. She is one of those people you can always rely on for a good laugh, great time, honest opinion and endless kindness. Kristina is a strong, independent woman that I genuinely admire, and I'm both excited and humbled to have someone so wonderful in my life and as part of my wedding!
Groomsman
Ross is Connor’s brother and has become a great friend. We first bonded over beers and trivia in Peoria and have found more in common as time has gone on. Whether we’re talking about the finer things in life (like coffee, food, or drinks), or enjoying video games, Star Wars, or board games, we always have a great time together. I’m honored to be calling Ross my brother-in-law!
Bridesmaid
Lesly is my oldest and dearest friend, and there's absolutely no way I would have made it through confirmation or any other church-related activities without her by my side! She is one of a kind, and to this day, I've never met anyone who can make me laugh as hard or as often as she can with such minimal effort. Friends since we were just wee little tots, our friendship was pretty much destined to happen considering our mothers were friends before we were even conceived. Her mother was in my mother's wedding, and I'm honored she said yes to being a part of mine!
Groomsman
Sean and I met at a beer tasting festival in 2016 and have been great friends ever since! When we’re not hanging out every week to watch reality TV with Connor and Alexia, or sneaking off after to watch the Mandalorian and talk about fish tanks, Sean has shown me how great the outdoors can be, from car-camping to rafting down the Payette River!
Bridesmaid
I have waited my entire life for a sister, and now that I finally (almost) have one, I am beyond thankful she is as wonderful and hysterical as Sam! Ever since she comforted me after a near-death experience in the murky waters of La Jolla, I knew I would always be able to count on her. While we may not share the same passion for gaming, we definitely do share a sassy sense of humor and loud personality which, in my mind, makes us a perfect duo!
Groomsman
It was while a large group of us were turning the 10th floor of (the now gone) Colby Hall into a slip-n-slide that I met Steve…he had this look in his eye that he knew exactly what he was doing, and I thought to myself, “I’ve gotta be friends with that guy!” Steve’s been through more adventures than I have and has taught me that you can have a good time anywhere, if you know where to look.
Flower Girl
Dani is my youngest and most darling cousin who I know will drop those petals like a pro! Over the years, I haven't been able to see her (or the rest of her family) nearly as often as I would like, but I do definitely keep tabs via social media to see what a beautiful young lady she has grown into. Dani is a sweet and sassy soul I'm proud to call family, and I cannot wait to reunite for the big day!
Officiant
Marris is the one that’s responsible for this wedding even happening in the first place. He and I had become friends at Radio Peoria where we both worked, and Connor was one of his promotions interns. Needless to say, Marris witnessed our friendship grow into a relationship, and has been a dear friend to both of us for years. We couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of being the one to marry us and host a fantastic reception!