Elia & Kevin
Wedding Party
Elia Sanchez
Bride
Plant and animal aficionado, arts & crafts, really anything creative, and somewhat of a neat freak. My distaste and lack of knowledge in beer quickly began to dissapate as Kevin introduced me to sours and wilds, and eventually a growing respect for stouts. Since then, we've become partners in crime visiting breweries and attending tastings as we nerd out to our favorite shows and movies.
Kevin Joy
Groom
Beer, board games, and family were the keys to the heart of the man whose Jurassic Park theories somehow didn't scare Elia away. Bonding over their shared love of Marvel and A Song of Ice and Fire, they continued to bring the best out of each other with Elia even motivating me to clean on occasion.
Avelino Sanchez
Father of the Bride
Growing up, there were times when my parents worked opposite schedules, and I remember spending a lot of time with my dad. We'd rent movies, go out to play mini golf, and he'd let my brother and I kick his butt at Mario Kart 64. I don't think many people get to say their dad was around much and I'm glad to say that my dad gave me a great childhood and that he has always been there when it matters most.
Robert Joy
Father of the Groom
My mentor, coach, and biggest fan. My father has always believed I can accomplish anything to which I've put my mind. Always pushing me to become my best self while taking the time and energy to help me build the knowledge and skills I needed to get there. The most important lesson he taught me was one he never had to say, you show up for your family, no matter what. He was always there for the important moments and events in all of our lives growing up and beyond.
Paz Romero
Mother of the Bride
Strong, dedicated, excellent cook, and from who I inherited my intense gaze and green thumb - I wouldn't be who I am today if not for my mom. While we did not have much, she always made sure my brother and I had the best education and upbringing we could to suceed as adults, whether it was our careers or becoming just overall good people. She has always been our rock, and is there to listen, provide advice, and support us in any way she can.
Kristin Joy
Mother of the Bride
Patient, supportive, and loving there is no one quite like mom with which to talk through your triumphs and concerns. Able to make quick friends with anyone, she helped me learn to find the best in others. Always happy to lend an ear, minutes quickly turn to hours talking with my mom.
Karen Duran
Maid of Honor
Karen and I have been friends since we were 15 years old! We've been through high school, college, and other milestones as adults. I only hope that our friendship continues on for another 17 years and more!
Colin Joy
Best Man
I am so proud of the man Colin has grown up into. No one laughs as easily or exudes as much Joy as Colin. Happy just hanging out or while out and about, his smile lights up every room he enters. I can't wait for him and his new bride Brianna to move to the Chicago Suburbs so they can brighten up our lives even more frequently. I love you bud and can't wait for us to stand side by side as we move into the next stage of our lives.
Edward Earley
Bridesman
We met working at PetSmart in 2013 and became fast and great friends. Who knew you could start a lifelong friendship over the word "moist"?
Adam Bassett
Groomsman
Adam and I met shortly after my family moved to Mundelein. The lot behind our new home was under constructions and Adam came over to slide down the dirt mountain in the back. We became fast friends and spent almost every day after school together riding our bikes around the neighborhood, video games, and playing the latest card game. Our friendship continues to grow through the years, from sleeping on his couch at U of I to grabbing a beer down the street at the Booze Hound. I am so thankful that you will be standing up there with me to celebrate this year.
Paige Davies
Bridesmaid
We also met while working at PetSmart together. Our affinity for animals, cleanliness and organization, as well as a similar sense of humor, and shortness has lead to years of friendship.
Danny Garofalo
Groomsman
Danny is the sweetest most caring man I know. He goes out of his way to make you feel heard and understood. We got to know each other while partying together at U of I and became even closer while putting together food crew. Of course we also have an annual trade in fantasy football which makes someone threaten to blow up the league.
Victor Sanchez
Bridesman
Being the older sibling, I've know my brother all of his life. With a 5 and a half year age difference, we did not always get along as children. As we are now older, and hopefully wiser, we are there for each other, even to just talk about different adult beverages and coffee.
Chris Varner
Groomsman
While I have not known Chris for as long as my other Groomsmen, it feels like we have been friends forever. Chris has the ability to make your day better, no matter what else has been going on. Finding ways to get together during these crazy times have been tough for everyone, yet Chris and I always seems to find time to get together, even if it had to be virtually.
McKenna Joy
Bridesmaid
I first met McKenna in Wisconsin when Kevin invited me to his family's lakehouse to meet his family. We've spent many great memories together at the lake since then, including McKenna's engagement to Tyler! I'm happy to call McKenna my seester-in-law.
Tyler Murphy
Groomsman
An absolute highlight of these past few crazy years has been getting to know McKenna's fiancé, Tyler. From the moment he entered her life, she has become ever more Joyful. In addition to feeling the exuberant happiness from McKenna, I feel like I have gained another brother. An exceedingly polite, thoughtful, and caring one at that. I am so excited for Tyler to stand with me on my big day and am counting the days I can do the same for him.