Best Man
Lukas Niska is the Jon’s cousin and essentially a second brother. Growing up, the two spent countless hours fishing, hunting, and exploring together, forming a bond that has only strengthened over time. Though life has since moved them to the city, they continue to support one another in their faith and value the time they still get to see each other (getting rare).
Maid of Honor
Amanda is Ellie’s older sister and lifelong best friend. The two have always shared a special bond, whether they’re spending time with family or staying active together. Ellie couldn’t imagine her day without her big sister by her side and is so grateful to have her supporting her on this special day.
Groomsman
Peter Juten is the Jon’s brother and a true day-one. From the very beginning, Peter has had a profound influence on his life, teaching him the value of hard work and leading by example. More mentor than brother at times, Peter’s guidance and support have played a major role in shaping the person the groom is today.
Bridesmaid
Karli and Ellie first met junior year of college as Microbiology lab partners, and their friendship really grew when Karli moved to Minnesota for work. Now they bond over long walks and 6AM Solidcore workouts. Ellie is so excited to have Karli by her side on her big day!
Groomsman
Thomas is Ellie’s brother and someone I’m grateful to call family. He’s incredibly funny, always keeps things light, and will never turn down a game of pickleball. I’m thankful for the way he shows up for Ellie and for the energy and joy he brings to everyone around him. It means a lot to have him standing with us on this special day.
Bridesmaid
Sarah and Ellie met freshman year of college, living kitty-corner across the hall from each other. From late-night study sessions to game day fun, they’ve always had the best time together. Ellie is secretly (or not so secretly) waiting for Sarah to move back to Minnesota already. But for now, she’s just thrilled to have her by her side on the big day!
Groomsman
Drew Mitchellette is another best friend from Jon’s time on the UMN rowing team and a former college roommate. Always up for an adventure, Drew was a constant companion on road trips to Texas, ski trips to Michigan, and everything in between. A “new old friend,” Drew has been a steady presence through many memorable seasons of life.
Bridesmaid
Karenna and Ellie have known each other for what feels like forever. From their dads coaching their soccer team to sharing memories through high school and beyond, they’ve grown up side by side. Ellie is so excited to have Karenna with her as she steps into this next chapter.
Groomsman
Erick Kriewaldt is one of the Jon’s closest friends, whom he met at the University of Minnesota as teammates on the rowing team and later as college roommates. The two share a love for dive bars in the middle of nowhere, undiscovered country artists, and football at any level. Their friendship is built on shared experiences, great conversations, and a lot of laughs.
Bridesmaid
Sydney is Ellie’s cousin and a close friend. Ellie used to babysit her growing up, and over the years their relationship naturally turned into a strong friendship. A lot of their favorite memories come from spending time together at the cabin with family, and Ellie is really happy to have Sydney standing with her on such an important day.
Flower Girl
Lottie is Ellie’s niece and the tiniest member of the wedding party. She may be a little shy at first, but she’s full of personality and loves dance parties just as much as she loves story time. Ellie can’t wait to see Lottie stealing hearts on the dance floor!
Ring Bearer
Stetson is Ellie’s nephew and the energetic little guy of the wedding party. At just over a year old, you can expect to see him toddling around and bouncing with excitement.. crawling is far too boring for him these days. Ellie can’t wait to watch his personality continue to shine, but for now, he’s sure to bring plenty of smiles as he zips around on the big day.