Wedding Party
Amy Schaffer
Maid of Honor
Our close-in-the-alphabet last (maiden) names brought us together in the 5th grade. We were locker neighbors. I instantly knew Amy was cool because of her magnetic mirror and magnetic personality. From scooping ice cream together in high school, to getting an apartment in Chicago together (and celebrating with too many margaritas), to the joy I've gotten to experience meeting each of Amy's three wonderful sons for the first time, we've been through it all. And, despite living in different states for more than half of our friendship, we pick up right where we left off every time we are together.
James Butler
Best Man
Were you expecting someone else? I would tell you how our friendship started, but admittedly I don't remember. I know it was some time between the release of the original Nintendo Game Boy and the Ninja Turtles' rise in popularity (I'll let you do the research). Let's be honest - at this point, we're basically family. There's only one time I ever remember getting into a fight with James: it was me punching him shortly after saying "if you do that again, I will punch you". Don't worry; we made up the same day. I was James' Best Man 6 years ago.
Kristin Frasca
Bridesmaid
Picture this: first day of freshman orientation at Loyola. Lindsey wearing khaki capris. Kristin wearing blue contacts. Somewhere, there may be a picture of this, but I'm hoping we cannot uncover it. Through awkward college years and beyond, I've watched Kristin persevere through grad school, become a mother, and travel the world (seriously, 31 countries and counting!). Kristin has been a consistent part of my life for nearly 15 years and my years spent in Chicago would not be the same without her.
Chris Faron
Groomsman
Despite the same last name and looking alike, we are actually not related. Just kidding - he's my brother, and a great one at that! Naturally, we have shared so many awesome experiences together over the years - vacations, holidays, and him safely chauffeuring me to high school. Chris is an incredibly thoughtful brother and knows more about music and movies than you do, or anyone.
Brittany Faron
Bridesmaid
Since the first time I met Brittany, I knew we'd be fast friends. Whether it's sharing our favorite Sephora finds or talking about our plants (seriously), I feel so lucky that Mike has brought Brittany into my life. Like Mike, Brittany is kind, generous, and has a great sense of humor -- what's not to love?! She's also the best pediatrician in the Lone Star state!
Mike Sayles
Groomsman
I'ts like the 'Mike & Mike' show (formerly known as Mike & Mike in the Morning). We became friends by being quasi-random roommates in college. It has now blossomed into a 13-year friendship, of which nearly a decade has been spent working together at 3 different companies. Today - Mike yells at me for not making enough candy. I yell at him for not telling me what candy he's going to sell. Between yelling, we play a lot of golf together. Unlike the other Mike & Mike, this duo won't split.
Karen Richardson
Bridesmaid
Despite suffering through our first year of law school in the same section, we bonded after law school over our shared affection for cooking, wine, and whiskey. When Karen allowed me to wait on her front steps when she brought her baby home, I knew we were family. Karen may spend her weekdays as executive director for the National Association of Women Lawyers, but for years we've been calling her MacGyver because she's the handiest lady around.
Gregor Shields
Groomsman
A few years back, Gregor ditched the beautiful, 4 season weather of Chicago for the boring, predictable weather of southern California. Despite the distance, Gregor is an incredibly easy friend to stay in touch with. We have sent no less than 10,000 text messages back and forth about ND football, among other things. Gregor also kills it with Thank You cards and generally being a thoughtful, fun person to be around.
Hillary DeLong
Bridesmaid
From Santa Barbara, to Havana, to Cape Cod, to our living rooms, Hillary's quick wit makes every experience better. Beyond being a wonderful travel companion, Hillary is always there to give the best advice about life, work, and even wedding planning. Our annual cooking competitions are sure to continue with increasing competitiveness. Also, cat ladies stick together.
Conor Douglass
Groomsman
Conor's interests include Karaoke, Coors Light, and CrossFit. Watching him sing "Shut Up and Dance" is best described as an out-of-body experience. Between him and his 4 brothers, some say he is the most attractive. Most will say that it is Ryan, or Mike, or Kevin, or Liam. In any case, Conor is a great friend, and an even better father. His positive attitude in almost any situation is an overwhelmingly awesome thing.
Clare Butler
Bridesmaid
Clare and I have the shared experience of competing for the attention of our significant others because of their first BFFs: each other. Clare's positive outlook and willingness to always have one more drink, solidified our friendship early on. I know our double dates, wine club memberships (Sorry Mike and James), and sharing of clothes will go on for all of time. Now, if only we could get Mike and James to buy into our idea of living in a compound all together...
Jeff Burke
Groomsman
Back in college, Jeff and I famously traveled to Fort Lauderdale together over Spring Break. Jeff did most of the planning and brought great music, per usual. I contributed during the trip by enhancing his limited knowledge about wine ("Jeff - pinot noir is white wine. Noir means 'white' in French"). You're welcome, Jeff. It was one heck of a trip. Jeff also has an infectious laugh. Once you hear it, it is ingrained in your mind forever.
Jimmy Champlin
Usher
Talking to Jimmy is like taking a nice, warm bath. His likes include slippers, cigars, woodwork, and watching his t.v. programs. Jimmy also holds the record for being called a "nice young man" more than anyone in history. Our friendship started in college as we bonded over everything from playing the guitar to whiskey. Jimmy and I have started multiple bands, but we have yet to record a song, or ever practice together.
Todd Brazda
Usher
Todd and I have only known each other for a few years, but a great friend is easy to spot. Todd and I traveled to Cuba together and shared a hacienda with none other than Corbin Bernsen (ok, you probably need to look him up). The picture of us is shortly before making the best tostones you would ever eat in your life. Todd is also wise and gives great life advice.
Leanne Valdes
Wedding Planner
You Name It Events Leanne is not only Mike's cousin, but she's also a wedding planning magician!