Wedding Party

Shane Shepard

Groom

Crystal Ayala

Bride

Anthony Gore

Best Man

Anthony and Shane have been side by side since they were five years old — more like brothers than friends. They balance each other perfectly, two halves of the same whole. After 34 years of loyalty, laughter, and life’s ups and downs, their bond hasn’t wavered — it’s only grown stronger. There’s no one who has stood by Shane longer or more faithfully, which makes it only fitting that Anthony stands beside him as his Best Man on the biggest day of his life.

Heather Ford

Maid of Honor

Crystal met Heather in fourth grade at Edison Elementary when she transferred to public school — and from that moment on, they were inseparable. What began as an instant friendship grew into a lifelong bond that has never faded, no matter the distance. Heather has always been a constant in Crystal’s life, and there’s no one else she could imagine standing beside her as her number one on her wedding day.

Nick Lord

Groomsman

Nick is Shane’s older brother and one of his lifelong role models — dependable, genuine, and a truly great guy. Shane couldn’t imagine this day without him standing by his side.

Danyelle Fohner

Bridesmaid

Danyelle isn’t just the bride’s older sister — she’s her built-in best friend and an incredible aunt. Crystal can’t imagine saying “I do” without her sister right by her side… again.

Melvin Shepard

Groomsman

Melvin is Shane’s older brother and someone he has always looked up to — steady, loyal, and an all-around great guy. There’s no one better to stand by his side on such an important day.

Stacy Rossman

Bridesmaid

Crystal has known Stacy since they were little girls on East 5th Street. Even after Stacy moved to Harborcreek, she remained a big part of Crystal’s life, filling her summers with memories all the way through high school. No matter how much time passed, they could always pick up right where they left off — and Stacy has always held a special place in Crystal’s heart.

Doug Knapp

Groomsman

Doug has been one of Shane’s closest friends — and at times, his business partner — for many years. They’ve spent countless hours side by side repairing and repainting cars, turning dents and damage into something restored and strong. Even though Doug recently moved to Florida, true friendship doesn’t fade with distance.

Lorin Reeves

Bridesmaid

Crystal has known Lorin since she was just three years old when Lorin moved into her grandpa's house right across the street. From that moment on, they became inseparable playmates, sharing countless joyful memories together. Even when Crystal joined the army, their bond remained unshaken. Lorin would visit for a few weeks at a time, and they would relish those precious moments, catching up on life's adventures and cherishing their enduring friendship.

Donny Gibbens

Groomsman

Fauna Gibbens

Bridesmaid

Jose Ayala Jr.

Groomsman

Jose is the brides oldest son and he will be standing on Shane’s side during the wedding! Shane has been in Jose’s life since Jose was 13.

Melissa Gonzalez

Bridesmaid

Melissa and Crystal's friendship began at East High School, where they bonded over their shared crush on the same group of boys from the park. They spent countless nights talking and dreaming about those boys. As life led them to enlist in the Army (at different times)—Melissa returning home to the Reserves while Crystal went active duty—time apart grew. However, when Crystal returned to Erie, their friendship reignited. Although they don’t see each other often, the connection they forged in those carefree days remains genuine and strong, a beautiful reminder of true friendship.

Jesiel Ayala

Groomsman

Jesiel is the brides youngest son and he will be a groomsman for Shane. Shane has been in Jesiel’s life since Jesiel was 9.

Aleena Ayala

Bridesmaid

Crystal first met Aleena when she was just two years old, while dating her older brother. Little did they know, their lives would be beautifully intertwined. When Crystal and her brother eventually married, Aleena blossomed into the “baby” sister Crystal had always longed for. Although divorce became a part of their journey, the bond between Crystal and Aleena only grew stronger, transforming the challenges into a deeper connection. No matter the changing dynamics, Aleena remains family to Crystal, and she is immensely grateful for Aleena’s joyful presence on her big day, a testament to their lasting love and sisterhood.

Tim Tompkins

Father of the Bride

Paula Tompkins

Mother of the Bride

Olivia Ayala

Flower Girl

Olivia is the brides only daughter. Olivia has always said she wanted to be the Flower Girl in their wedding and that’s just what she’ll be. Shane has helped raise Olivia since she was 2 years old.