Rachel & Joel
Wedding Party
Rachel Wagner
Bride
Born and raised in Ohio, Rachel went to school in Toledo to study Bioengineering. During her college internship in Warsaw, IN, at an orthopedic company called Zimmer, she met Joel. After she graduated college, she worked in Warsaw for a year at that same company while she worked on her Master's in Mechanical Engineering. Later, she moved to Bloomington, IN to work at Boston Scientific, a medical device company out of Spencer, IN. Rachel enjoys crocheting/crafting, music, biking, roller skating, long walks on the beach, various DIY craft and paint projects, tending to her pigs (guinea), and creating exciting baked goods.
Joel Wisely
Groom
Born and raised in Illinois, Joel attended a local community college followed by Southern Illinois University to fulfill his goal of becoming a Mechanical Engineer. After graduating Joel moved around to various jobs in the areas of research and development, designing, and sustaining products at companies like Cummins, Zimmer, GE, John Deere, and most currently Carlisle Brake and Friction. Joel met Rachel during his contract work for Zimmer. Joel enjoys baseball (playing and collection of cards), biking, skiing, refining his Rocket League skills, and spending time with his dog, Daisy.
Kaitlin Carithers
Matron of Honor
(Older) sister of the bride - Kaitlin started her journey at Ohio University where she decided the traditional academic route was not a good fit for her learning styles. Instead, she spent much of her time traveling and learning from people in their trades in person. Through this, she has learned and perfected her musical and culinary skills, as well as her knowledge of herbal uses for nutritional betterment of the human body. When she's not learning new things or working on a homesteading project, she's spending her time with her 2 children (son named Soren, daughter called Namé) and her partner on their growing homestead in Tennessee. Kaitlin has always been a positive force in Rachel's life, and Rachel is so grateful to have a loving big sister to look up (down in height) to.
Greg Roberts
Best Man
Uncle of the Groom - Greg and Joel share a unique relationship: Greg is Joel's uncle, but they are the same age. Because of this, they have been close, like brothers, from childhood to adulthood. They bonded over things like their love and development of car stereos. Greg grew up in Illinois, attended Eastern Illinois University, and later Northern Illinois University, where he studied geographical information systems. Greg and his wife, Anna, reside in Texas with their rabbit, Lamby. There, they enjoy biking, cooking, and DIY projects around their new home. Greg also enjoys perfecting his Rocket League skills with Joel.
Caryn Wagner
Mother of the Bride
Despite the growing internet reputation for 'Karens', this particular one is kind-hearted and compassionate. Caryn grew up in Ohio and pursued her dream of becoming an elementary-aged music teacher, something she did successfully up to her retirement 6 years ago and beyond. Caryn was married to her husband, Donald, until he passed away in 2014. She and Donald produced two lovely daughters, Kaitlin and Rachel. In her time of retirement she enjoys trying new baking recipes, finding creative ways to decorate her home, spending time with her family, delighting in her grandchildren, and watching various musical and drama productions. Caryn will be walking the Bride down the aisle in the traditional place of the Bride's father.
Sherri Day
Mother of the Groom
Sherri was born in Massachusetts, then later moved with her family to Illinios where she grew up. Sherri has a history of being able to learn about and do a variety of tasks. Over the years she has perfected her culinary skills by becoming an excellent maker of soups and baked goods, she has learned to sign ASL (American Sign Language) to songs, and she has learned to make intricate jewelry. Sherri has two wonderful sons, Joel and Robb. She and her husband, Darrell, reside in Tennessee where she enjoys spending her time crafting, learning about end time Biblical prophecies, collecting antique decorations, and spending time with family when able. Sherri will be performing at the ceremony with ASL to music.
Andy Galvin
Officiant
Andy and his wife, Madelyn, reside in Winona Lake, Indiana. During Rachel's internships in Warsaw, she stayed with this family by renting a room in their home. Over the time she spent there, she formed a bond with the family. Andy and Madelyn were able to see the beginning of and encourage the relationship between Rachel and Joel. The Bride and Groom are honored for Andy to be officiating their union!