We kindly request that our guests be vaccinated prior to our June wedding. We hope you understand our loving intention is for all our guests to be able to enjoy the evening without concern for their health. If you aren't vaccinated, please take a test within 72 hours.

June 10, 2022

Cleveland, OH

Kelsey & Brett

Home

Wedding Party

Meet our friends and family that are walking down the aisle with us.

Tyler Ferguson

Maid of Honor

After 3.8 years of being an only child, Kelsey was ecstatic to finally gain a little sister in 1998. After navigating numerous health challenges, Tyler maintained incredible resilience, strength, hope, positivity, joy and humor through it all. Now, in a gap year before grad school, Tyler lives with Kelsey, Brett, Sampson, Roscoe, Misty and Ziti and wonders why she moved to a place with so many animals.

Bobby Lark

Best Man

Bobby and Brett met during their first week of college at DePaul University. They shared Music Education and ensemble classes throughout school, and eventually became roommates. Their friendship really took off during their senior year and post-college as they navigated similar experiences as young band directors. Bobby has been with Kelsey and Brett since the beginning, asking such great questions such as, "But how do you know that you like Brett?" and ensuring that Kelsey didn't suffer from heat stroke by running ahead on a hike that was 20 degrees too hot, and several miles too long. He's the best, man!

Kayla Burke

Matron of Honor

Kayla and Kelsey became instant best friends their first week at DePaul. After meeting on a bus during 'Discover Chicago', Kelsey and Kayla started to take on their new city together. 4 years later, Kelsey somehow had a best friend that listened to all her mock auditions, baked the best cupcakes and dished out equal parts sass and excellent life advice. Since their DePaul days, Kelsey has been unsuccessfully trying to get Kayla to move to Cleveland. Meanwhile, Kayla enjoys the beauty of Maine while serving in her dream job as a band director in the same district where she grew up.

Brian Balika

Groomsman

Oldest brother of Brett as well as being a master music educator, formidable board game player and fantastic father. He is one of the many reasons why Brett joined the education field. If anyone reading this is interested in fine handmade wood tables, cutting boards, etc. talk to Brian at the wedding!

Lauren Keating

Bridesmaid

Ben Balika

Groomsman

2nd oldest brother in the Balika family. Ben thought he could out-run the teaching gene, but he found his way into the profession as a High School Science teacher. We didn't grow up as the best of friends, but we've managed to work out the kinks. He is a fantastic brother, teacher, musician and friend!