Wedding Party
Teena Ellend
Officiant
Dennis and I were former colleagues at City of Hope. When I first met him I knew right there and then that we would hit it off as good friends. A bit after, we were bar-hopping, club-going and hitting all the best hot eats in town. His inviting yet notorious ear-to-ear smile would light up the room and his kindness and generosity know no limits. A loyal friend to a fault, he became one of my best friends and has been a member of our little family since. He is “Uncle Dennis” to our pups, Olivia and Wanda, an avid almost-real-uncle to our daughter Claire, and my best friend for life. Anthony and I were co-clients to a boutique workout studio in Glendale. He was, and still is, the most supportive and encouraging much like a “lifeline” or a “phone-a-friend” kind of pal in both grueling workouts, and life in general. He didn’t look all that bad either. So as intimidating as his piercing eyes and his magnetic charisma were, I took a chance on asking him if he was single. Luckily for me and luckier for Dennis, he was! And the rest was history, and is a lifetime partnership in the making. I will forever cherish two of my treasured and sweetest surprises in my life and I’m deeply honored and proud to call them family.
Brittany Rose Shepherd
Maid of Honor
“Anthony and I met fall 2007 when he auditioned for Corona Winter Guard. In addition, we marched Blue Devils the following two summers. Our close friendship began when I became his assistant at Hart High School. We taught early mornings together and would go on daily adventures once we got off work. Exploring downtown LA, running /skating throughout the park, ice skating, and of course shopping. Never a dull moment when you surround yourself with Anthony. Always a fun moment with him and he would make any day fun. My family considers Anthony apart of the Shepherd family and the brother I never had. Now we open our arms to Dennis. I’m excited to be apart of the wedding party and look forward to their union as a married couple.
Krystal Cookie Shepherd Greene
Bridesmaid
I meet Anthony in 2007 when he came to March Corona. I was just enamored with how talented he was. It was kind of intimidating. I had never met someone so talented yet so humble and kind. We really started to be close friends once we started to teach Blue Stars together and I moved to Northridge for school. In away we have grown up together and I will forever be grateful that Anthony was brought into my life. Watching his love for Dennis grow has been a treat. I look forward to standing by his side on their big day.
Michael Garcia
Groomsman
I am Anthony's younger brother. I just wanted to say how excited I am to be a part of my brother's wedding, It's gonna be awesome.
David Lowry
Groomsman
Anthony and I first met officially in 2007 for the 2008 Corona Season. I had watched Anthony perform before and thought, "Wow, he is so good". It was exciting to meet him at Auditions for the 2008 season. We started to become friends and would make each other laugh and "cut up" in fun banter on the sabre line. We shared having similar lives growing up (chola alert) and became closer. The following 2009 season we had become inseparable on the weekends for rehearsals and would continue to become closer and build a friendship. He always wanted to practice on breaks and I just wanted to drink my diet coke and smoke a cigarette (which I did) but he insisted we do the "walk-over" trick over and over and over again... he pushed me hard and made me a better person and performer and I Thank him for that!
Homer Alexis Lopez
Groomsman
I met Anthony through the eclectic and wonderful world of pageantry known as Color Guard. Our friendship flourished during our time as cast members of The Corona Independent World Class Color Guard, and to this day, I consider Anthony one of my closest and dearest friends. Anthony is a friend for whom I have the utmost respect and admiration for. He is dedicated to his craft, loyal to his friends, compassionate, and real. Humans like himself are hard to come by. I wish Anthony and Dennis the absolute best as they continue to share their love, life and partnership in marriage together. With Love -Homer Alexis Lopez
Joshua De Guzman
Groomsman
“Anthony and I met through our love of Color Guard. We first met In 2005 marching Pacific Crest together. We also both marched Corona Winter Guard but unfortunately not in the same seasons. Through mutual friends we became closer and we have been great friends ever since! So honored to be a part of Anthony & Dennis’s special day and I wish them the best! Congrats Felicia!”
Bryan Vargas
Groomsman
Anthony and I met for the first time in October 2004. We were introduced through our mutual friend, Beverly Gunderson at one of our first LAUSD Marching Band rehearsals (it was also Anthony’s last rehearsal). Since that time 20 years ago, we’ve been fortunate to call each other friends, and even more fortunate that it was our love of the marching arts that allowed us to cross paths. Our friendship has stood the test of time through long bus rides, performing together, and even being roommates.
Norma Ortega
Maid of Honor
First, I want to say that I am so incredibly honored to be standing next to Dennis as one of his maids of honor. Just like our dad’s, we too are best friends. I’ve been so blessed to have had the opportunity to grow up with Dennis. He is more than a cousin; he has become my twin. He has always been so supportive, loving, and caring with my daughter and me, so it is no surprise that he met such a beautiful person as Anthony. Anthony has brought so much light and love to our family, and he has been an incredible addition. Twin, congratulations! I love you both so much!
Jhoan Garcia Balladarez
Groomsman
Hello Everyone I'm Anthony's oldest brother Jhoan or known by (Chano) or (Jojo) He is the middle brother from 3 of us. Anthony and I meet in the same neighborhood back in the day lol We are from the same mother! He is a good brother he is there for whenever you need a brother advice or talk to,l won't change him for anvbody in the world best brother. When Anthony started bring Dennis around the family, Dennis instantly felt part of the family. I'm so excited can't wait for this day to come and be part of this special day. LOVE YOU GUYS
Beverly Gunderson
Bridesmaid
Anthony and I met when we were just kids. Middle school actually, but it was not until high school where we really became close friends. Since then we have graduated high school together, started color guard together, have been there for each other in the really lows and really highs. I disappear from time to time but I know I can always count on him and I hope he knows he can always count on me too. We talked about each other's weddings growing up and what it would be like and I can't believe it is finally here! I can't wait to be part of their special day! -Beverly Gunderson
Rich Brown & Daniel Salentinig
Groomsman
We first met Dennis in 2014 at our friends Dave and Teena's daughter's 18th birthday party. As we started hanging out more with him, he quickly revealed himself to be incredibly funny and genuinely kind-hearted; every outing with him was filled with laughter and joy. Our introduction to his new boyfriend, Anthony, came when we all attended a food event in Downtown. Together, Dennis and Anthony were just as we'd hoped: perfect. Both caring and fun, they complement each other beautifully, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Over the years, we've enjoyed countless parties, dinners, and casual hangouts at friends' houses with them. Now, as we prepare to celebrate their wedding, we're reminded of the importance of love and community. We're thrilled to be part of their special day and wish Dennis and Anthony a long, happy marriage filled with love and countless joyful memories
Margie Verbera
Bridesmaid
I first met Dennis in the summer of 2008 when we worked together. Our friendship grew, and Dennis became my go-to person with his trusty Dr. Chapatin bag, creating a unique bond filled with laughter at work. We bonded over our shared love for dumplings, tacos and drinks, making every meal an enjoyable experience. When Dennis introduced Anthony, we couldn't have been happier. Now, as I prepare to be a part of their wedding celebration, I am honored to be a bridesmaid. I wish you both all the best on this next chapter of your lives!
Damaris Carol Ortega
Bridesmaid
To mi cuñado Antonio. In Anthony, Dennis found someone that compliments who he is as a person. Anthony, you’ve come into our lives and we’ve got to see how charming, sweet, and fun you are to be with. To my cousin Dennis. My cousin that came over for vacation and never left. You moved in and found a permanent spot in our hearts. When we were kids you were loving, caring, and hard working. Well now you’re all grown up and you found a partner you can share all that love with. To my cousin Dennis. You moved into our house and I’ll probably never forgive you for taking the better room. But if you asked me to do it all over again, I’d give you the better room every single time cause it meant I got to grow up with my brother. To the cutest couple in the room. I’m honored to be a part of your wedding. There’s nowhere I’d rather be on that day than standing up for you both. Cheers!
Jamie Alvarez
Bridesmaid
I first met Dennis through his cousin, Norma, when we were teenagers. Throughout our 15 years of friendship, Dennis has grown to be one of my dearest friends. We’ve had our fair share of wild adventures, creating unforgettable memories that I will always cherish. His loyalty and genuine character make me incredibly grateful to stand alongside him on this special occasion. Congratulations, Anthony & Dennis!
Susana Rodriguez
Maid of Honor
I met Dennis back in 2008 when we were kids. My God, it's crazy how time flies after that we were inseparable.. we met at work, and this place will always be treasured and special met wonderful people who inspire me for life. Dennis and I became the best friends we would do everything together from going out, casual day, and traveling. Working around Dennis is so much fun along the side of other friends like Margie and Silvia. We had us some fun and crazy times the best times. Dennis is a one of a kind individual who has always been genuine, truthful, and original. I love his sense of humor, how he's down to earth, and his big heart he has a big personality that wakes the entire world; he also has his sensitive side that he protects and guards with a character shield. OMG, I love his hair I always want to brush it and play with. Lol. We have so many stories good and honestly rare if we have a bad one, just that one time he finished my omelet. Lol.. "I want my omelet back." Lol.. All these years and continue will always be treasured and extremely special. "T amo honey boo boo Para siempreee Para siempreee" Nunca cambies asi perfect o no Pierdas tu esencia, eres Bello por dentro y por fuera, tu eres lo Maximo por que tu corazon vale oro..
Cindy Rojas
Bridesmaid
Hola hermano Dennis la verdad nose que decir son muchos sentimientos encontrados , pero primero que nada te quiero mucho estoy muy orgullosa de ti y de la persona que te has convertido al paso de los años ,estoy muy feliz por ti ,cuando te miro con Anthony miro que encontraste a la persona perfecta para pasar tus días con él , les deseo de todo corazón que sean muy felices en esta nueva etapa de su vida , los quiero muchas gracias por hacerme parte de este día tan especial para ustedes.
Gaby Ortega
Bridesmaid
Dennis and Anthony have this enchanting love story that feels like it's straight out of a fairy tale. Having grown up with Dennis as more than a cousin, but as a brother, I've witnessed the genuine connection and deep bond they've created. I've had a front-row seat to the beautiful connection they've built. Anthony, with his outgoing and sweet nature has helped Dennis become an even more amazing person. Can’t wait to welcome him to our family! Being asked to be a bridesmaid is an absolute honor, and I can't contain my excitement for their upcoming wedding. Here's to a day filled with love, laughter, and all the happiness in the world for this amazing couple! Cheers to the soon-to-be Mr. and Mr.! 🥂