Family Recognition
Vernon (Charlie) Bruhn
Father of the Bride
Dad My dad is one of my most favorite people in the world, and no, it's not JUST because he is my dad, but that does help! He is everything I wanted to grow up to be: humble while giving you the shirt off his back, kind when you make some of the worst mistakes, generous in every action to those he loves, lighthearted in every situation that he can be, because life is too short and passes by too quickly. A lot of who I am I owe to him being the example. But I think the most important thing he has taught me is how to love unconditionally. As I start this new chapter, I carry his love and lessons with me, and I can only hope to live a life that makes him as proud to be my dad as I am to be his daughter. I love you, Dad. #justascratch
Katie Bruhn
My Katie
Katie I thought about putting your title as “stepmom of the bride,” but it just didn’t feel right for what you truly mean to me and who you are in my life. Do you remember when the Superintendent of the School District came up to me and asked who was joining me that day, and I responded, “My Katie”? You were mine in my heart then just as much as you are now. From that moment on, you’ve been more than a title—you’ve been family. You’ve been a shoulder to lean on, a confidant who listens without judgment, a teacher with endless wisdom, and a fashionista with impeccable style, but most importantly, you’ve been a best friend and exactly what I needed.
Crystal Laskiewicz
Mother of the Bride
Momma Growing up, I always got to watch you be the true embodiment of a free spirit, living life to the fullest no matter the circumstance. I love that I got to learn from your example of never taking anything for granted—especially time. You taught me that every moment can be fun and exciting, and that every moment is precious because we only get a finite number of them in this world. Thank you for never letting me forget how to have fun, even when I was the most serious child. I want you to know that I remember and cherish all of our adventures—whether it was sneaking a freshly made pizza into a movie theater or rocking out together at a Slayer concert. Those moments shaped me just as much as your love has. I love you.
Lawrence (Larry) Karl
Father of the Groom
Dad My dad has been my model of strength, faith, and determination. He’s the one who instilled in me my work ethic, teaching me how to push through challenges with grit and confidence. I’ll never forget the countless times he cheered me on from the sidelines, hands thrown up in frustration when I messed up a play, only to follow it with guidance and encouragement on how to get it right. His “COME ON MAN” still rings in my head whenever I know I could have done better, but it’s always paired with his unwavering support in helping me find the solution. Beyond sports and daily lessons, he has shaped me into the man I am today through his faith, financial wisdom, and constant encouragement. He has always believed in me, and that belief has made all the difference.
Heather Tanner
Mother of the Groom
Mom My mom’s resilience and determination inspire me daily. Some of my favorite memories with her come from high school, where she was not just my Spanish professor but also my greatest encourager. Whether it was saving me from a last-minute project disaster or sharing late-night stories on the back patio, she always found a way to protect me and lift me up. Her problem-solving ability, her steady presence, and her unconditional support have been constants in my life. She has taught me what it means to keep going no matter the challenge and to always put family first. I will always cherish the countless moments, big and small, where she has shown me love without limits.
Cecia (CC) Laskiewicz
Sister of the Bride
Cuddle Bug - First off, thank you for inspiring me to get bangs again; they just looked so good on you, I couldn't resist! - But honestly, that’s just one of the many ways you’ve inspired me over the years. My sister is one of the wisest people I know, and that’s not something I say lightly. It’s easy to find people who are smart or knowledgeable, but true wisdom is rare—and that’s exactly what makes Cecia so special. She not only learns and absorbs so much, but she also applies it in her life, which is something most people never quite master. And what makes her even more beautiful is the way she carries it: never boastful, always respectful, always listening with an open heart. She has this quiet strength, this calm presence, that makes you feel safe, understood, and loved. I love you forever, CC!
Lily Steckley
Sister of the Bride
Lily Bug It truly feels like we were born to be sisters, and I am so blessed that God placed you in my life. I’ll never forget when you were so little, playing in the ball pit with Maddie… while Smokey ate all the balls. Even then, your first instinct was to be a little more reserved, watchful, and quiet, but that’s how you always noticed more than the rest of us. You were the first one to catch Smokey in the act and scold him, and honestly, that was the beginning of the wisdom and awareness that makes you who you are today. Now, I get to watch you flourish in your creativity and pour your heart into something you truly love. That’s such a rare gift, and I hope you never take it for granted. Cherish it, nurture it, and keep dancing your heart out on that stage, pretty girl! I love you!
Madeline (Maddie) Bruhn
Sister of the Bride
Mad Baby I need you to know how deeply I admire you. Over the years, I’ve watched you grow into the most amazing young lady, and while so much about you has blossomed, one thing has always stayed the same—your unapologetic confidence to be exactly who you are. I don’t think you fully realize yet just how rare that is in this world, but I know in my heart you’ll never let the world tell you who to be. Instead, you’ll stand tall and shout your truth from the rooftops so there’s never any confusion about the beautiful soul you are. Never stop seeking joy, even in the quiet or boring parts of life, because that’s where your spirit truly thrives. I’m endlessly proud of you, and I love you so much, baby.
Nicholas Karl
Brother of the Groom
Bro My brother has always been more than family; he’s my closest friend. No matter how stressful life gets, we’ve always had each other’s backs, pushing through hard times together with loyalty and laughter. Some of our most unforgettable stories are the kind you can’t make up: climbing through a second-story window at 2 a.m. so our parents wouldn’t know we were locked out, or sitting side by side at a stoplight in our matching Mustangs from our grandmother, laughing like we were in a scene straight out of Fast & Furious. Then there are the quieter memories, too, long, hot afternoons fishing on the family pier, waiting patiently for the big catch, only to lose it because Nick didn’t grab the net fast enough. Those moments, big and small, are priceless to me. I am so grateful for the trust he places in me as his older brother, for the way he learns from my mistakes, and for the way he celebrates my victories as if they were his own. The bond we share is one of the greatest gifts of my life.