Wedding Party

Joe Schaeffer

Groom

Lena Tran

Bride

Steve Schaeffer

Best Man

Power Rangers & Holes in Underwear. Brotha's.

Melissa H.

Maid of Honor

Through many laughters, tears, & the creation of confusion for both families if Melissa & Lena were in a relationship as "more than friends" the dynamic duo of Mahogany & Leonia have been inseparable since 2010. From the skies of San Francisco to Washington D.C., Melissa holds a special place in Lena's life as her foundation, best friend, and soul sister.

Alex Chov

Groomsman

It all began in high school when Joe learned how to cook authentic friend rice at China Express. Alex was impressed by Joe's muscular ability to make stellar Asian food that their friendship blossomed ever since. This relationship also spreads to another Groomsman, Gabe Oland, that also worked at China Express, that the roots of working in an Asian restaurant, has contributed to the successes within their own careers.

Paulina N.

Bridesmaid

It all began with UNAVSA10 where Paulina & Lena met and were on the marketing committee for the conference. Instant connection led their lives to traveling over the U.S. for music festivals, late night phone calls, & annual trips to visit each other. A southern girl meets a South Dakota girl and became soul sisters.

Calvin LaBrie

Groomsman

Proud 'YOTE's and the special memories staying up late in the Design room at USD.

Kate H.

Bridesmaid

Training to become phenomenal waitresses and learning the in's & out's of Idaho nachos and micro beers made Kate & Lena bond over the love for food. Finding similarities of being USD alumni, their friendship grew stronger when their relationship expanded overseas to France & Spain. Only an hour train ride away, late night shenanigans in San Sebastian Spain & Pau, France will hold special memories in their friendship. Luckily, Kate and Lena's fun overseas never led to anyone getting hurt, harmed, or in jail.

Gabe Oland

Groomsman

Sleepovers in High School and dance parties. Joe & Gabe are <3

Maria N.

Bridesmaid

Car pools & High School.... Maria & Lena go all the way back to the days where they lived only a few blocks apart. Fast forward to 2017, the bond between Maria and Lena only strengthened when Lena started twerking at the club that led to Maria being impressed and wanted to grow closer as friends and happily ever after.

Mindy Chu

Bride Assistant

It all began in 2012 when Lena & Mindy shared a sleeping bag for a UNAVSA Staff Retreat in Anaheim, CA. From that moment on, Mindy and Lena became friends. Travels here and there to California in the bay area, Lena would try to make a visit and spend some time with Mindy. Fast forward to 2019 and Mindy gets to make a trip from her SF to Lena's SF (Sioux Falls!) :)

Josh Duncan

Officiant

Friends for over 10 years, Lena introduced Josh to Joe where instant connection was made. JoeLena is grateful for Josh to have a significant role on an important day for everyone close to JoeLena.

Elijah Bonde

Usher

It all began in high school with the most rad parties thrown by oral interper, Elijah Bonde and his family, that made Lena knew that the friendship had to exist if she wanted to be invited to any future parties by the Bondes. 2008 and beyond, the friendship between Elijah and Lena extends beyond high school years to college days at USD in the communications department and first jobs as professionals post-undergrad. Additionally, Joe's younger brother, Stephen, happens to be Elijah's BFF, and the circle of friendship is complete with amazing people.