James & Samantha
Wedding Party
Riyana Straetker
Maid of Honor
I’ll admit, when I first met Sammy, I was determined not to like her, how dare a freshman run faster than me, a junior. But it was impossible not to love her, and we quickly became inseparable, from jokes on the cross-country course to weekly sleepovers, way too many Photobooth photos, and countless FaceTime hours. Seventeen years later, through growing up, college, and new chapters, the one constant has been our friendship. I’m so excited to stand by her side as she and James step into one of life’s epic highs.
Rikki Lopez-Morales
Matron of Honor
Sammy and I are cousins, but being only six months apart, we've shared a lifelong bond that feels more like sisterhood. It's been such a blessing to grow up together, and be by each other's side through the ups and downs. It brings me such immense joy to celebrate her and James as they begin this beautiful new chapter together. I am truly honored to stand by her side on such a special day!
Kelli Capel
Bridesmaid
Sammy and I met freshman year at LMU as cross-country teammates and instantly connected. We’ve grown up together over so many shared so many miles and memories and I’m so thankful we've gotten that chance! Sammy has been by my side for the many changes and seasons of my life, always being a constant supporter and encourager. We promised early on we’d stand by each other as bridesmaids, and I’m so honored to do that for her now. I’m beyond excited for Sammy and James.
Catherine Kasho
Bridesmaid
We met at 8 a.m. on a Thursday before organic chemistry lab. I was fresh off a night of food poisoning (and looked absolutely miserable). By some miracle, Samantha, the most beautiful girl in class, agreed to be my lab partner. From that moment, we became inseparable. Through college, med school, residency, and all the miles and time zones in between, our friendship never wavered. From being roommates to those long catch-up calls during my three-hour drives, Sammy has been my constant—proof that some bonds are truly meant to last a lifetime.
Theresa La
Bridesmaid
What began as a freshman-year study group quickly turned into a friendship built on partnership, creativity, and laughter. Whether we were presentation partners, ice-skating teammates, or recreating Instagram poses, I could always count on Sammy to jump in and help turn half-baked ideas into fully formed plans. Even as life took us across time zones, our bond only grew stronger. There will be many more adventures, and some where James will have to third wheel and be an unpaid photographer. But what I am most looking forward to is seeing the magic that comes from the special chemistry between Sammy and James.
Angel Moreno
Best Man
Hey! I am Angel, James' older brother, and I’ve had the privilege of growing up with him not just by my side, but at the center of so many of my best memories. From childhood adventures to the messy lessons of our teenage years, we pushed, protected, and challenged each other in ways only brothers can. We shared secrets, fears, laughter, and the kind of fights that somehow bring you closer. Through it all, we quietly shaped each other into better men. James has always been more than family to me—he’s my closest friend, my steady support, and one of the greatest blessings in my life.
Edgar Camarena
Groomsman
Hola! I’m Edgar, James’ favorite cousin of all time. James and I grew up sharing the same love for music, food, and way too many laughs. From family trips to coffee and lunch dates (sorry Sammy 😅), we made memories that I’ll always treasure. We even started a band back in 2005 and became famous absolutely nowhere… but those moments meant everything. All jokes aside, I’m incredibly proud to call you family. I’m so excited to see the life you’re building and can’t wait to make new memories with you and your bride-to-be. Love you, brother ❤️
Gerrit Dickey
Groomsman
James and I were inseparable throughout college and he’s been a lifelong friend ever since. He third-wheeled on my first date with my wife Shannon, and now he’s Tío James to our kids. We love Sammy, James is family, and we are so excited for them to build a life together.
Garett Foshay
Groomsman
"This seems like a lot of work" -Garrett
Julian Perez
Groomsman
James and I met back in 9th grade in our integrated science class. He was literally making beats on his desk, which somehow turned into a conversation about music and a friendship that’s lasted ever since. Even when months go by without seeing each other, we don’t skip a beat. He’s been a brother to me, a bandmate, and the best housemate I’ve ever had. When he lived with me, we often stayed up way too late doing karaoke and singing 3 part harmonies, or walking to 7-eleven for a late night taquito run while discussing hot topics that would usually end in great learning and even greater laughs. When James introduced me to Sam, it was immediately clear she was someone special. She’s warm, kind, and genuinely beautiful inside and out, and honestly, she just makes James better. I’m so grateful they found each other and couldn’t be happier to celebrate them as they make one of the best decisions of their lives together.
Carlos Morales
Groomsman
I met Sammy through my wife Rikki—since they’re cousins, I was basically drafted into the family from day one. Through Sammy I eventually got to know James, who fit right in and then decided to drag me into the wonderful, frustrating world of golf. He’s personally responsible for my lost golf balls, questionable swings, and new vocabulary on the course. Over the years we’ve taken trips, spent holidays together, and somehow we all keep choosing to hang out anyway. Whether we’re traveling, golfing, or watching James and Sammy turn literally anything into a competition, it’s always a great time—and we’re so excited to celebrate their next big milestone together.
Johnny Moreno
Groomsman
What's up, people? My name's Johnny, the groom's cousin. It’s hard to explain how we met since we’re family. But I will say that some of my best memories are of me, him, and the best man, Angel, from high school. You can ask anyone… we were inseparable. We did everything together. We were in a band as well, and it was, in my opinion, one of the best chapters of my life. I remember those moments like they were yesterday. I’m proud and honored to be part of his special day. Love you, Henry.