Maid of Honor
Sarra is so much more than a big sister. She's the namesake of Emma's very first email address (sarraslilsis@yahoo.com), and the main character of Emma's 5th grade writing assignment, "Who Do I Admire?". She's also directly responsible for Emma's lifelong love of a good dance floor. Sarra's the reason Emma met Jesus at 17 years old, the first person she calls when there's a story to tell, and the woman she's looked up to most for 25 years.
Bridesmaid
Bridget and Emma were in the same freshman girl's bible study, and after many months of convincing from their bible study leader, they finally agreed to become roommates the next year. (Thank you, Sarah!) Since then, Emma's friendship with Bridget has only become deeper, more mature, and more grounded in Jesus. Emma looks up to Bridget in so many ways – not the least of which are her steadfast faith, depth of compassion, and keen eye for true beauty.
Bridesmaid
Emma's Phi Mu sister <3 (I’m actually not allowed to say that because I dropped out sophomore year. Shh!) Emma’s favorite exercise is seeing how hard she can make Sofia laugh. They're friends from Ole Miss and somehow swindled FOCUS into hiring them as social media interns together which is still the most creatively fulfilled Emma's ever felt. One time they "spoke" to David Henrie (star of Wizards of Waverley Place) on the phone, got to be among the first 100 people to watch his unreleased movie, and cried.
Bridesmaid
Riley and Emma arguably owe their friendship to three infamous things: TikTok, COVID, and the Kardashians. They became college roommates without knowing much about each other, but quarantining for 3 months together solidified Emma's belief that Riley is one of the funniest, most generous, selfless, smart, hard-working, and fiercely loyal friends she would ever have. It's only an added bonus that Riley is becoming a doctor because Emma constantly has questions about mysterious symptoms she faces and refuses to seek treatment for.
Bridesmaid
Images that come to mind when describing Cassidy: sunshine, bright wildflowers, goldendoodles, cherry red Jeep Wranglers, New Orleans charm, and Ole Miss football. Emma's favorite thing about Cassidy is how hopeful she makes life seem. Even in the midst of chaos and overwhelm, Cassidy never drops her smile and she never speaks ill of another person. She's a deeply loyal, encouraging, and faithful friend – and she's always ready to jigg! (Keep an eye on the dance floor, you'll know it when you see it.)
Bridesmaid
Emma always hoped that if her future spouse would have sisters, they'd get along. Truly, Emma could cry with gratitude knowing that she actually gets to be friends with her sister-in-law. Emmy was extremely welcoming when Ben first introduced her to the family, and continuously proves to be a faithful friend. Emma has also admitted that, besides Ben, she thinks Emmy is the funniest Koca. Sorry Todd, gotta step it up!
Best Man
The eldest of the Koca siblings, Alex has always paved the way for the rest of them – mostly in the right direction, despite some minor hiccups. It’s not easy having a taller, stronger, and better looking little brother, but he’s worn it like a champ. Alex will never let you down with his hot takes and he’ll fight with his last breath defending it. His title of Best Man reflects how good of an older brother he’s been and how close Ben and Alex have grown in friendship over the last few years.
Best Man
Much like Alex, Ben also has a little brother who’s taller and better looking than himself. Though Nick is 7 years younger, they are very close in friendship. Some of Ben's favorite life memories are teaching Nick who’s boss in backyard sports and watching their beloved Cornhuskers miss out on yet another bowl game together. Having a little brother has been one of the coolest things ever, and Ben couldn’t imagine his life any other way.
Groomsman
It may not sound like it, but the names Stavros and Ben are synonymous. Though Ben's intellect & love for school may not match Stavros', their passions are one and the same. From putting their musical skills on display at the Barley Street Tavern in Omaha to their world famous Christmas videos, the showmanship never ends. Stav is a true brother from another mother.
Groomsman
Like his brother, Niko is a true day-one homie. He is the most studious & reflective person Ben knows and has his bid for World’s Most Interesting Man. With a major in philosophy, an intellectual chat with Niko is by far the most gripping dialogue you’ll have all year. He’s incredibly skilled in the art of ranting and arguing, something that has rubbed off on Ben. (Thank you, Niko.)
Groomsman
Most people can’t say they’re still best friends with their Kindergarten sweetheart, but that’s not the case for Ben and Andrew! Andrew brought him along through their adolescent years, and he still hasn’t given up on Ben yet. Through much experience, he’s mastered the craft of being responsibly reckless, and his spirit and energy haven’t subsided even in their old age.
Groomsman
If you need something to get done, Patrick is the first and only man you need to call. Ben can always trust him to keep him from slacking off in anything. They worked their first jobs together as measly bag boys at the country club, but to others’ dismay, they ran that place. Patrick reinvigorated Ben's love for golf and is the reason he's spent thousands upon thousands of dollars just to be angry. Thanks man!
Usher
Matt is Emma’s oldest sibling, so he brings a lot of wisdom. He resides in Denver, CO where he's raising a family of Chargers and Broncos fans, pairing nicely with Ben's indifference for the Chiefs. Matt has already assisted Ben in acquiring his first firearm, so it’s safe to say he’ll be a strong resource for Ben and Emma’s future family. One time while Emma was in college in Mississippi, Matt sent her a screenshot of a map of America's roads with the route to take to meet him in Kansas if Russia invaded. Obviously, no, it didn't include any major highways.
Usher
Josh is your go-to guy for a chill evening with some good laughs and good conversation. He's the wittiest person you'll ever meet and he can talk with you about anything. Seriously, he knows so much about so many things. It's probably because he's so tall, he can just physically see more than the average person. He's perpetually got the 10,000ft view on things. (Kidding aside, we're eager to see what happens when Josh and Niko get into the same room. The philosophical musings to come from one rehearsal dinner alone could change...everything.)
Usher
Ben's wild side will always be alive and well due to Tommy. From questionable late-night decisions in high school to Czech Fest drinking contests at the farm, they've had quite the time. Tommy has lots of love to give, be it through back breaking hugs or by generously denoting his money at the poker table, something Ben is incredibly grateful for. We appreciate you, Tammy!
Usher
Who would have thought that the biggest KU fan ever would be one of Ben's best friends?? God works in mysterious ways! Brendan is probably the most genuine guy you'll know. This is made clear by his unapologetic love for Pokémon GO and anime TV series. Brendan and Ben will go from pushing each other’s buttons one minute to having a genuine heart-to-heart the next. Stay golden B-Dan!