Wedding Party

Joey Darling

Bride

Lucas Hernandez

Groom

Isabel and Kevin Darling

Parents of the Bride

Ben & Chris Hernandez

Parents of the Groom

Rod Pilkenton

Father of the Bride

Benjamin Darling

Brother of the Bride

Jesse Thompson

Officiant

Joey's oldest brother is the officiant for our wedding. We wanted someone that was special and dear to us. We couldn't think of anyone better than Jesse; a man we know we can rely on and has looked out for Joey through her many adventures. We are so honored to have him as the officiant of our wedding!

Davis Vermillion

Groomsman

Davis and Lucas worked together at Ft. Liberty and quickly became best friends. Davis was a pillar in the foundation of Joey and Lucas' journey. Davis is a big fan of Creed and golf!

Rachel Coleman

Bridesmaid

Rachel is one of Joey's closest friends. They started taking classes at Pure Barre within a month of each other and quickly recognized their similarities. Their friendship continued to grow throughout their time together in North Carolina, and Rachel continues to be Joey's steadfast pillar of love and support.

Logan Hernandez

Groomsman

Logan and Lucas can always recall the times they were playing video games together or wrestling in the family house. Logan is a smart man that enjoys sharpening his shooting skills and getting big in the gym!

Shea Ronson

Bridesmaid

Shea is one of Joey’s closest and most enduring friends—the kind of friendship built over years, miles, and memories. From college days at UNCP to campaign trails, cross-state moves, shared homes, and every high and low in between, Shea has been there. She’s walked alongside Joey through every season of change: the good decisions, the questionable ones, and the moments that shaped who they are today. Their bond is one of deep trust, laughter, and unwavering presence—and Joey couldn’t imagine this day without her.

Lydia Hernandez

Groomswoman

Lucas, with no shame, says that watching Barbie, and playing My Little Pony together after school was one of his favorite past-times. Lydia enjoys reading books and going to concerts in her free time!

Jennifer Thompson

Bridesmaid

Jen is Joey's sister-in-law. They were fast friends after first meeting and always pick up like no time has passed when they see each other. They connected quickly and their bond remains strong, always laughing together, loving each other, and giving Jesse (Joey's oldest brother) a hard time.

Matt Barnwell

Groomsman

Lucas met Matt early on in his military career. They would attend the same unit, deploy together, become roommates and eventually lead to becoming amazing friends. Matt taught Lucas what it meant to "break down walls". Matt enjoys taking his boat out on the water!

Stephanie Hart

Bridesmaid

Joey and Stephanie started as co-workers and that quickly grew into an amazing friendship! Stephanie is who Joey goes to when she needs a hype woman, someone who will get her perspective, or when she's just looking for connection and fun. Stephanie's positive energy is contagious, and you will surely see her on the dance floor with Joey!

Sam Bergquist

Groomsman

Lucas has known Sam since 2016 from North Park University where they played soccer together and lived across the dorm hallway. They would eventually become roommates and go on many adventures together. Sam loves running marathons and fine whiskey!

Haley McGonagill

Bridesmaid

Haley is one of Joey’s dearest friends and a founding member of her core crew. From the very beginning, Haley has been the calm in the chaos—the one with a level head, a sharp wit, and the kind of wisdom you didn’t know you needed until she said it out loud. She’s equal parts grounding force and secret comedian, and Joey can’t imagine this day—or life—without her.

Sam Zivot

Groomsman

Lucas has know Sam for over five years now. They would attend the same unit, deploy and live together. Sam taught Lucas that a sense of humor and some history lessons will make you the most interesting person in the room. Sam enjoys traveling the world.

Dawn Rightenburg

Bridesmaid

Dawn is Joey's stepsister, but they get along as so much more than that. They laugh all the time about their similarities, and Dawn always has Joey's back! They love each other so much!

Nicola Brady

Bridesmaid

Nicola is one of the most thoughtful, intentional people Joey has ever known. Every gesture, every word, every outfit—she pours love and care into it all. She’s the friend who remembers the little things, who shows up with beauty and heart, and who makes everyone around her feel seen. Nicola’s sense of style may catch your eye first, but it’s her warmth and depth that stay with you. Joey feels endlessly lucky to have her by her side on this day, just as she has been through so many others.