Wedding Party

Ariana

Bride

Joshua

Groom

Said

Man of Honor

Man of Honor to the bride, I've known Ms. Ari or Ms. Grande as I like to call her, for four amazing years (and counting). Somehow, it feels like we've known each other our whole lives, like two best friends who were just waiting for the universe to bring them back together. We met while working at the same hospital and instantly connected through laughter, sarcasm, caffeine, and a shared sense of dark humor that only true friends understand. Through every shift, every late- night talk, and every little moment in between, she's become so much more than a friend, she's family. As I stand beside her to celebrate the love she's found with Josh, my heart is full of pride and gratitude. I couldn't be more honored to share this day with her and witness the start of their beautiful new chapter.

Alex

Best Man

Hello everyone! I'm Alejandro- most people call me Alex- and I'm honored to be Josh's best man. Josh and I have been friends since childhood, and one of our earliest memories is him accidentally almost ending me with a wrestling pile driver when we were eight. If you survived Josh's childhood stunts, you earned a lifelong friendship. Anyway, a little about me: I'm a family man who loves to fight, hit the gym and play video games. I sell fine jewelry (like Ariana's masterpiece on her finger), and I fight professionally for work. According to my wife I'm charismatic, very outgoing, loud, positive, and kind. Sometimes I can rub people the wrong way, but I promise I mean well- and I'll grow on you! Its an honor and a pleasure to be here for Joshua and Ariana!

Rebecca

Bridesmaid

Hola! I'm Rebecca, the Bride's quirkiest sister- in- law. My favorite memories with her are the endless laughs we've shared together over the dumbest things. I am forever grateful that, even with the distance , Josh and Ari are an incredibly supportive aunt and uncle to my girls. It brings me peace knowing my brother found his perfect match and as Horace Slughorn said, "It is impossible to manufacture or imitate love." I'm honored to stand by Ariana's side and wish the happy couple a lifetime of new adventures, love, and unforgettable memories! ❤️

Sam

Groomsman

I'm Sam, Josh's brother-in-law. I've known Josh for over 20 years- since I first met his sister Rebecca in high school. Over the years, I've come to know him not just. as a family member, but also as a good friend. We share similar personalities and a quiet appreciation for close friendships and loyalty. I'm honored to stand by his side and truly happy he's found someone to share his life and laughter with. Congrats, and I wish you and Ari all the happiness, Bro! 🍻

Jessica

Bridesmaid

My name is Jessica, I'm from El Paso. I met Ari in our childhood as my brother's friend's little sister. Later, I would know her as the shy young woman Josh had chosen. Watching their relationship blossom has been a great privilege over the years. Our lives feel enriched with Ari as more than just Josh's special someone. She has become family; someone I can call a sister. I'm honored and excited to celebrate this beautiful union.

John

Groomsman

Hello, my name is John. I'm from El Paso, and at 52 I've built a career as an environmental and safety consultant. I met my wife and Ariana's aunt 34 years ago and now share 4 children, which ties me closely to the family. I am known for being opinionated, a little antisocial, and sometimes grumpy- but that's what makes me memorable. When I'm not working you'll find me watching soccer or adding to my card collection. Josh and I share a sharp, judgmental sense of humor and a love for gambling- a bond that makes our friendship both entertaining and unpredictable. As for weddings, I have a very practical vision: start at 2pm, everybody go home by 3:30pm. Guests will quickly discover that beneath the gruff exterior is someone who values honesty, humor and keeping life simple. With my white and Guamanian heritage, my unique perspective, and no nonsense personality, I add balance to the groomsmen lineup. I'm proof that every wedding party needs someone to keep things real and maybe remind everyone that it is time to go home.

Sarah

Bridesmaid

I first met Ari and Josh when I got my first vet job at the hospital Ari worked at. I was in school to become a vet tech, and Ari was one of the people that showed me the ropes. She quickly turned from a coworker to friend, and before I knew it, I was spending countless nights at her house playing games and singing. That is where I met Josh. Since then they've always made me feel included and given me support whenever I needed it the most. I am so grateful to have found one of my best friends, and get to see her marry a man with only the best intentions. #JoshianaForever

Omar

Groomsman

My name is Omar Alaniz, I am Ariana's uncle. Me and Josh have an ongoing rivalry with the game Mario golf and he will not let me win. Aside from that I am honored to be a part of this wedding and witness two souls be together forever.

Ny

Bridesmaid

I met Ari at work, she said Hi to me and I said Hi back. And one day she invited me to a movie night with other coworkers to watch all of the Twilight Saga movies at her place. Which is where I also met Josh. And after that we spent many nights together staying up playing games, watch movies, go to Escape rooms, and meals together. I am so happy to be here to support Ari and Josh on their wedding day and many days in the future.

Krzysztof

Groomsman

My name is Krzysztof and I am a mechanical engineer. I enjoy playing DnD and I have been trying to teach Ari and Josh how to play. I met Ari and Josh through my fiancee Ny. I was invited to a movie/game night at Ari and Josh's place. After that, we spent many nights together staying up playing games, watching movies, going to escape rooms and out to eat together. We also went to Vegas where we all lost money. Some more than others. I am very happy to be here to support Ari and Josh on their wedding day and the many days to come in the future.

Andres Alaniz

Father of the Bride

All I remember one night was Susie screaming that she wanted to leave to the hospital then BAM, she farted and out came my baby. I also remember I almost killed the doctor because he dropped her (that would explain some things). She may have a sharp tongue and a sass level that can win awards, but beneath it all she's loyal, fierce, and loves harder than she admits. As she heads into marriage, her family proudly and hurriedly hands the torch to someone else who can now handle her delightful brand of "mean". Josh is a good man and has shown patience, love and tolerance. She is my joy, my love, my nurse, and my warden. She makes me so scared yet so proud.

Susana Alaniz

Mother of the Bride

It was a hot summer night when an alien came ripping out of me. Without any warning, just pain. Everyone was celebrating with fireworks, while I was giving birth to one. One look at that innocent, beautiful, angelic face melted my heart away, and I knew at that moment I belonged to her. My name is Susana Alaniz and I am the proud mother of Ariana. She brings me joy, happiness, cheerfulness, anger, frustration and annoyance all at once but I wouldn't change it for the world. She has become the beautiful, independent, strong woman I knew she would. I'm so happy she found her perfect mate to share her life with, she deserves that and more. Love, for always, Mom.

Sandie

Mother of the Groom

My name is Sandie and I am Josh's mom. I am vey proud of him and the man he has become. I have spent a lot of years watching him grow into a better man every day. In 2017 I had helped Josh move to Albuquerque and about a month later he surprised me with a visit. He drove 5 hours to tell me in person that he was dating Ari and that it was pretty serious. I, of course had my concerns. HE is my last child and only son after all! I was touched right in my heart, that he loved and respected me that much, to let me know in person. Ari is such a great addition to our family. She is like the 4th daughter maybe I was supposed to have. I am so happy that they have each other. I have seen their love. I have to say, that is what we should all strive for... a love like theirs. ❤️

Paty

Wedding Coordinator

One wonderful Fourth of July is when this "little" firecracker came into my life. My name is Patricia Garnica- Paty-and I am the bride's aunt. That day I not only gained a niece, I feel I gained a sister too, always getting into trouble together and sharing beautiful and funny moments together. I met the groom, Josh when he was in middle school. My nephew invited this nice, respectful young man into our home. He was not only my nephew's friend, he immediately became family, he became our Josh. Through time we became witnesses to Ariana's and Josh's growing love. It is beautiful to see these two wonderful souls come together with love and respect towards each other. Ariana and Josh I am so excited and honored to be a part of the most beautiful, wonderful and important moment in your lives, your wedding.

Naomi

Flower Girl

Hi, my name is Naomi Velasco. I am Josh's niece and his favorite one. I am very proud and overjoyed for both of them, and I wish them happiness and love for their marriage forever.

Mia

Flower Girl

Hi! My name is Mia Velasco. I am Josh's niece, and as my favorite uncle, I wish them happiness and peace forever.

Lupe Alaniz

Officiator

I’m not just the bride’s aunt; I hold the special honor of being the officiator for the wedding! Ariana and I have always shared a close bond. Ariana carries many of the same qualities that I admire in my older brother—she is tough, kind, down-to-earth, and funny. One of my fondest early memories perfectly captures our relationship: waking up in my childhood home to a young Ariana tapping me on the forehead with a book and demanding, "Read to me, read to me!" She has annoyed me ever since. I also have a long history with the groom, Josh. He was one of my nephew's friends and seamlessly became part of the family, fitting in perfectly with our unique sense of humor. When it was discovered years later that Josh & Ariana had become a couple, the family sentiment was genuine happiness because we already knew him so well. I describe Ariana and myself as "sweet, gentle souls," while Josh and my husband provide the perfect balance as the "grumpy, old, complaining bastards" of the family. It's this shared sense of humor & deep family history that makes me so excited to be a part of their special day. My advice for the couple is: "Marriage is love, mostly frustration, and a teensy-weeensy bit of hate and annoyance. But you are making the commitment that if anyone is going to annoy this person or give them a heart attack, it’s going to be you! We don’t quit, we go all in!" I cannot wait to celebrate the union of two people so dear to my heart and I look forward to sharing in their joy.