EMILY & ZACH
Wedding Party
Jeff Hessler
Father of the Bride
My dad has always been one of the most important people in my life—my coach, my cheerleader, and the one who can always make me laugh. We’ve always been close, and getting to walk down the aisle with him by my side means more to me than I can put into words. Watching the relationship he’s built with Zach has been so special—he’s welcomed him in with the same warmth, humor, and support he’s always given me, and that means the world to both of us. - Emily
Sandra Davis
Mother of the Groom
Having my mom at the wedding is incredibly special because she gave everything to raise me and my sister on her own, always making life feel full of love, laughter, and meaning. She made every birthday and holiday magical, showing us how to find joy even in the hard times. Her strength, creativity, and love have inspired me more than she’ll ever know. - Zach
Amy Hessler
Mother of the Bride
My mom is fun, bubbly, and the heart of our family—she lights up every room and somehow makes everyone feel instantly at home. She’s been my mom and best friend all in one, and I hope I can be half the wife and mom she is. I honestly can’t imagine my wedding day without her—she inspires me in more ways than she probably even knows. Living at home when Zach and I were dating, and having her by my side through this whole journey has meant the world to me. - Emily
Criss Bertling
Wedding Officiant & Zach’s Grandma
Having my grandma at the wedding means everything to me—she’s been the rock of our family and the greatest example of strength, love, and resilience. She’s not only shaped who I am but saved me in ways only she could, always believing in me and pushing me to be my best. I’m beyond grateful to share this moment with the woman who taught me what it means to love unconditionally. - Zach
Maggy DuRant
Matron of Honor
My sister, Maggy, has been by my side for literally everything—school, Zeta, college, even getting engaged and married in the same year. We’ve done life together from the start, and I truly can’t imagine it any other way. She’s more than my sister—she’s my built-in best friend and the person who knows me better than anyone. Having her by my side on my wedding day feels like coming full circle. These are the days that we dreamt about as kids! - Emily
Zach Hessler
Best Man
I’m truly honored to have Zach as my best man— not just because he’s Emily’s brother, but because he’s someone I deeply respect and admire. Even in college, he carries himself with a calm confidence and wisdom beyond his years. The way he loves his family, pursues his passions, and lives with intention has always stood out to me. I couldn’t imagine a better person to stand by my side. - Zach
Catie Fearing
Matron of Honor
Catie is more like a sister than a cousin—we grew up just a few miles apart and spent every moment together we could. From sleepovers to family dinners, we made the best kind of childhood memories side by side, and that closeness only grew as we went off to college together and stepped into adulthood. Her steady, positive spirit has always grounded me, and the way she’s made Jesus the center of her life continues to inspire me every single day. - Emily
Mason Davis
Junior Best Man
Having Mason at my wedding means everything to me—he’s not just my nephew, he’s my best friend and one of the biggest parts of my heart. I made a promise the day he was born to always be there for him, and watching him grow into the strong, kind, and courageous young man he is today makes me incredibly proud. Whether we’re playing sports, gaming, or just hanging out, he reminds me every day why that promise was the best one I’ve ever made. - Zach
Tara Tovkach
Bridesmaid
Tara and I met freshman year living on the same hall, and pretty much never looked back. From Dance Marathon to late nights at the library, we did almost everything together—we’ve always called each other “duplicates” for a reason. She’s one of the most grounding, honest, and uplifting people I know—a friend I can always count on, no matter what. Having her by my side on this day means everything, because she’s been part of so many of the moments that made me who I am. - Emily
Jaxson Fearing
Groomsman
I’m so excited to have Jaxson at the wedding—he may have come into my life through Emily’s family, but he instantly became a brother in every sense of the word. His competitive spirit is matched only by the depth of his loyalty and love for the people around him. I’m proud to call him both a friend and family, and grateful for the bond we’ve built. - Zach
Olivia Courtney
Bridesmaid
Olivia and I met through work, and it didn’t take long before we became instant best friends. We’re always cackling about something—there’s never a dull moment when we’re together—and she’s truly the kind of person who lights up every room she walks into. I’ll never forget sitting in Moments when she met Zach for the first time and started crying because she was just so happy for me. She is one of those once-in-a-lifetime friends, and I’m so grateful to have her standing by my side. - Emily
Tanner Coad
Groomsman
I’m grateful to have Tanner as one of my groomsmen—a friend I met at work, but someone who quickly became much more than just a colleague. He’s incredibly driven, always pushing himself and those around him to be their best. His work ethic and determination inspire me, and I’m lucky to call him a great friend. - Zach
Jasmine Etienne
Bridesmaid
Jasmine and I started at NextEra around the same time, and we’ve been a dynamic duo ever since—solving the world’s problems and laughing nonstop while doing it. She’s fiercely loyal and has been cheering me on since day one with Zach (she even joked we’d get married after our first date). When she met him, she said, “Break her heart, I’ll break your face”—and we still laugh about it. Having her by my side means everything. - Emily
Sebastian Piazza
Groomsman
I’m so excited to have Sebastian at my wedding—he’s been one of my closest friends since senior year of high school, when we truly bonded over shared experiences and common passions. I’ve always admired his drive and independence; he’s someone who pushes himself to be great without needing anyone to tell him to. Even through ups and downs, our friendship has stayed strong, and I know we’ll always have each other’s back. - Zach
Natalie Marciniak
Bridesmaid
Natalie and I met at work, and now we can’t get through a day without cracking up about something. We sit next to each other, wear ridiculous animal slippers—golden retrievers for me, piggies for her—and somehow manage to have the best time even in a cubicle. She’s quick-witted, thoughtful, and brings joy into every part of my day. I’m so lucky to have her standing with me. - Emily
James DuRant
Groomsman
I’m excited to have James at the wedding—not just because he’s family through Emily, but because he’s become someone I truly enjoy being around. He’s the kind of person who always shows up for his people, brings great energy, and keeps the laughs coming (even if he’s a diehard Gator fan and I’m a Vols guy). Having him there to celebrate means a lot, and I’m thankful for the friendship we’ve built. - Zach
Ashley Lynch
Bridesmaid
Ashley and I clicked the moment we met. She’s engaged to my cousin, Brendan—who’s really more like a brother to me—so it felt like gaining a sister from the start. Ashley is rooted in truth, fiercely loyal, and loves her family with her whole heart. She brings a quiet strength into every room, and I feel so lucky she’ll officially be part of our family in May 2026. Having her by my side on our wedding day means the world. - Emily
Brendan Hessler
Groomsman
I’m proud to have Brendan as one of my groomsmen—he may be Emily’s cousin, but to both of us, he’s truly like a brother. I’ve always admired how hard he works to better himself, constantly pushing forward with grit and determination. More than that, his loyalty runs deep—he shows up for the people he cares about, no questions asked. I’m grateful to have him in my corner and standing with me on this day. - Zach