Wedding Party

Kate Spoelstra

Bride

Brian Cronen

Groom

Karen Marcotte

Matron of Honor

I met my niece, Kate, the moment she was born What a joy it has been to see her mature into the wonderful young woman she is today, From the start she was always her own woman, insisting on wearing her “JellY” sandals well past the time they fit her anymore, forging her own destiny with her year in Costa Rica as an exchange student, and meeting the challenges of getting through college. I most admire her courage and stamina in fighting a serious medical condition for over ten years with grace and good humor. Adjusting to hearing loss is just another way she has shown her inner strength. Brian’s enthusiasm and hard work ethic seems a very natural fit for their life together and I wish them many happy years of health and happiness.

Yukiko Yazaki

Maid of Honor

Meredythe Marcotte

Bridesmaid

I have known Kate for as long as I can remember. Many of my best childhood memories have Kate in them— from rainbow-haired Barbie coloring pages to experimental hair fashions of our own. Kate: You have always inspired me, and continue to do so! I’m looking forward to standing up with you on your special day!

Chris Cronen

Best Man

I'm Chris, Brian's brother. I spent the bulk of the 80s and 90s getting into shenanigans with him. I am very excited to have Kate join our family! I'm currently serving in the Army (24 years) and live in Elgin, Oklahoma with my wife Stephanie and our two boys, Eli and Ethan.

Joe Spoelstra

Groomsman

I am the very proud brother to Kate. She has always been a strong, free thinking, fun loving, and kind person. We’ve spent so many years long distance, but our phone and video chats over the years are so special and silly. I am so happy to know Brian and see how they support and respect each other.

Lu Spoelstra

Mother of the Bride

Kate's mom is Lu. She is so excited to see her daughter so happy with the love of her life, Brian. Lu couldn't be happier to have Brian join the family. Brian and Kate have a wonderful relationship and Lu is hoping they will always know how much she supports and loves them. Lu has retired from teaching special education for over 40 years and still loves subbing at the school whenever she can. Additionally, she loves traveling, gardening, hanging out with family, and running.

Ron Spoelstra

Father of the Bride

Hi wedding-goers! I’m Ron, Kate’s dad and soon-to-be Brian’s father-in-law. I’ve had a sweet spot in my heart for Kate for half-a-century. Wait! She isn’t that old. Anyway, there’s more than enough room to add Brian to our lives. Kate is good and always getting better. Hmmm! Has Brian had a hand in that? They’re always up for a game, a beer/beverage and spending time together. I’m so thrilled to have this joyous celebration taking place on June 22 (and at our home). What could be better?

Mira Magnolia

Flower Girl

Mira Magnolia Hartrich Spoelstra is the almost-3-year-old niece of Tia Tortilla and Uncle Brian. Mira comes from a long line of silly, loving people and Kate and Brian bring so much silliness and love into her life. She is looking forward to wearing a very fancy dress and dropping flower petals. And she might demand that everyone applaud.

Molly Hartrich

Flower Girl Assistant

Kate Cronen

Mother of the Groom

I'm Kate, mother of the groom. I first met Brian at Abbott Northwestern in the mid-80's and fell in love with him immediately. I just as quickly fell in love with Kate and couldn't be happier for them. I currently live in Arizona where besides enjoying retirement, I teach, design and make stained glass.

Steve Cronen

Father of the Groom

Erin Cronen

Cake Cutter

I am Brian's younger sister, so I have had the joy of knowing him my whole life. We were so excited when we heard Brian was going to propose to Kate! From the first day I met her it was easy to tell she was a great person and a great match for Brian! Brian and Kate are definitely two peas in a pod! We are so excited to have Kate join our family, and can't wait to see what the future has in store for the two of them!

Ken "Keek" Melich

Ceremony Musician

I'm Kate's uncle 'Keek'. I've known Kate her whole life but got to know her better after she and her family moved back to Minnesota. She used to take flute lessons at our house and she even worked in our shop during the summer. I met Brian a couple years ago and am impressed by his wit, intelligence, maturity, stamina (running and biking) and most of all his commitment to Kate. I'm proud of them both and wish them all the best for their future together.

Becky Melich

Ceremony Musician

I'm Kate's Aunt Becky,married to Ken. I've known Kate since she was a toddler learning to walk. I got to know her better after her family moved to Minnesota. I've enjoyed her company while on family camping trips, bike riding, making music in the evening around the campfire. I was fortunate to be able to give her flute lessons. She has grown into a beautiful loving caring person. I'm so proud of her . I met Brian a couple years ago.I was impressed with his athletic abilities, kindness,and caring personality. I wish you both all the best as you spend your life together as a married couple.

Peter Knaeble

Officiant

Robin Knaeble

Wedding Planner

Fred Eckler

Candle Lighter

As their newest uncle (recently married to Kate’s aunt Karen), I had no opportunity to watch Kate and Brian grow up. Meeting them as young adults, I find that I’ve acquired two very mature, loving and interesting friends. I hope their life together will be as full as joy as mine has been with Karen. (PS….. Don’t tell Karen)

Kevin Martinez

Wedding Photographer

Dan Lipman

Videographer