Wedding Party
Alex Courtway
Matron of Honor
Meet Alex Courtway, Emily’s bestie and Matron of Honor. Alex has been close friends with Emily since 2013. Initially meeting when they attended church together at The Dwelling Place in Emily’s hometown of Lake Charles, LA. They both came to faith in Christ at The Dwelling Place and have been inseparable ever (apart from the obvious physical distance) since! Alex recently retired from early childhood education to become a stay at home mom to her two little girls. Even though Emily and Alex lead extremely different lives. Their love for each other and love for Christ consistently bonds them closer as their lives continue to flourish. Alex currently lives in Philadelphia with her husband, Colton, who claims to be Emily’s true best friend (we all know that’s a stretch of the truth), and her two sweet girls Hope and Ruth.
Justin Landry & Travis Cake
Best Men
Justin (Left) & Travis (Right) have been two of James’s dear friends for many years, dating back to high school. James met Justin playing baseball, where a friendship quickly formed. Justin is married to Whitney and together they have a beautiful daughter, Collins. James has known Travis since his high school years as well and their bond deepened during college when the three of them spent countless hours together, sharing life, laughter and plenty of adventures. Travis is married to Tiffany and they have an adorable son named Cooper. While the groom is blessed with many great friendships the connection shared with Justin and Travis has truly stood the test of time. The joy of celebrating this day together matches the excitement the three of them shared while cheering on the Washington Capitals during their championship run. Moments filled with energy, laughter, and memories that still hold a special place. There are also meaningful connections between the best men and the bride that make this even more special. Emily’s Louisiana roots align perfectly with Justin’s family ties to Louisiana and their shared love for LSU. Emily and Travis also happen to share the same birthday, a small detail that feels like a reminder that the most important people in life often end up connected in unexpected ways. James is honored to have Justin & Travis standing beside him on such an important day and is grateful for their friendship, support and the role they have played in his life.
Joyce McGraw
Mother of the Bride
Joyce is a dedicated mom, dog parent and wife. She’s been married to her husband, Tim, for 39 years. They live in Ragley, LA where she enjoys the retired life and fulfilling her daily heart’s desires. Between woodworking, answering Emily’s constant phone calls and watching football, she stays consistently busy! Joyce is a member of St. Theodore Catholic Church where she serves on the Altar Society. She never will admit it, but Emily is her favorite daughter :)
Tim McGraw
Father of the Bride
Tim McGraw is a loving father, dog parent and Husband. When he’s not selling out arenas for fans to listen to his many country hits, he enjoys the slow country life. Recently Retiring from Dimmick Automotive Sales/Bumper to Bumper (a family business) he still keeps busy on a daily basis. From manicuring the 40 acres of land him and Joyce live on, repurposing metals, helping out neighbors to enjoying a front porch beer with a warm Louisiana sunset. Tim will also never admit it, but Emily is his favorite daughter too :)
Eleanor McGraw
Flower Girl
Eleanor Claire McGraw is Emily’s niece and light of her life. Eleanor has been wondering when her “Utty Am” is going to get married (She’s asked Emily at almost every Sunday family dinner for years now). Well, she doesn’t need to wonder anymore! Eleanor is an excellent Catholic School student who loves to hang out with friends, play at the beach, participate in gymnastics, and cheer on her schools sports teams. Eleanor loves her and “Utty Am’s” 7-11 gas station runs after Emily picks her up from school. Along with singing at the top of her lungs whether she’s in church or in the car.
Scotty Smith
Father of the Groom
Scotty was a lifelong Boilermaker and a man who took pride in honest work, just like his father before him. After retiring, he found joy in the simple things, cruising around Buckroe on whatever set of wheels he had at the time, whether it was a scooter, golf cart, car, or even an electric wheelchair. By his side was always his beloved dog, JoJo. Known by many as the mayor of Buckroe, Scotty had a generous heart and cared deeply for the people around him. He believed in treating everyone with kindness and respect, lessons that shaped the man James is today. Scotty also spent much of his adult life as a devoted caregiver to his brother, a role he embraced with patience, compassion, and quiet strength. His faith was a guiding force in his life and a constant source of inspiration. Scotty’s love for God and for others left a lasting impact on his family. Although Scotty passed on January 2, 2021, and was welcomed into Heaven alongside his daughter Jessica, his presence is still deeply felt. While Scotty cannot be here physically, we know he would be over the moon excited for this next chapter for his son, James.
Brenda Smith
Mother of the Groom
Brenda has never been shy about how much she cares for her children. If there are two things everyone knows about her, it is how deeply she loves her family and that you never quite know what kind of adventure the day might bring. A phone call from Brenda could lead anywhere, but one thing is always certain, it will be memorable. Known for years as the Food Goddess, Brenda poured her heart into caring for others, a calling she continued when she retired to look after her aging mother. She has been a lifelong member of Buckroe Baptist Church, where you can still find her serving at the food pantry or leading Sunday School with joy and dedication. Her faith is at the center of who she is. Brenda’s love for Christ shows in her words, her actions, and the way she encourages everyone she meets. To her sons, affectionately known as BK & Boys, she has always been a steady source of love, guidance, and faith. Her heart for family and service has shaped countless lives, especially those closest to her.
Kirby Vick
Step Father of the Groom
Kirby has been part of the groom’s life for many years and has been a steady, reliable presence along the way. A longtime master electrician, he is the person everyone calls when something needs fixing. No matter the question, Kirby always has an answer and is quick to lend a hand. Known for his kindness and willingness to help, Kirby never hesitates to step in when someone needs support. He also happens to be an incredible cook, so a visit to the house usually means something delicious is on the stove. At home, Kirby is a proud cat dad to Mr. Whiskers and Pearly Girl, who keep things entertaining. His generosity, skill, and quiet dependability have made him an important part of the family and someone James is extremely grateful for.
Chipper
Son of the Groom
Chipper joined the groom’s life through adoption about two years ago and quickly became family. From the moment the front door opens after work, he is there with pure excitement and endless affection. Chipper loves everyone he meets and has never met a stranger. Named after a legendary Atlanta Braves player, his name fits him in more ways than one. He is a true Chipper dog, a happy, cheap little boy who brings joy wherever he goes. You may hear him called Match Chipper from time to time, but most often he is simply known as the most perfect boy in the world. When he is not greeting guests or soaking up attention, Chipper is busy playing with his toys and proudly removing every squeaker he can find. Loyal, loving, and full of personality, he keeps life fun and hearts full every single day.
Scruffy & Lzzy
Daughters of the Bride
Scruffy (left) came into Emily’s life when living in Ragley, LA. She was a stray that was rescued in the summer of 2013. At 14 years old, Scruffy enjoys being the “fun police” and monitoring her younger siblings to make sure they don’t have too much fun. She also loves roaming around the backyard fence line, basking in the sun, treats, and nighttime cuddles with her younger sister. Lzzy (right) was a rescue in 2023 from Hope For Life animal rescue in Virginia Beach, Va. She was pregnant, needing eye surgery, dental surgery, spay and had crippling anxiety. Lzzy was a tough case. Emily fostered her for a little over a year before officially adopting her. Now, Lzzy won’t go outside if it’s too cold and doesn’t have her sweater on…. At 7 years old Lzzy enjoys morning time cuddles with her mom, hiding toys around the house, barking for no reason, and her new brother Chipper. Scruffy & Lzzy will not be in attendance of the wedding but had to be mentioned!