Lilianna & Markus
Wedding Party
Alexis Fernandez Thompson
Matron of Honor
Alexis is one of the warmest, most empathetic and generous women in my life. Here's a real-world example of her incredible nature: as a Labor and Delivery nurse, Lexi worked around the clock with little sleep, food or rest in order to provide extraordinary love and care to the mothers-to-be. A few months into the job, she began to receive countless cards from mothers she tended to, thanking her profusely for the unique and ultimate care she provided to them and their newborn babies. Alexis brings her joy for life into every relationship, especially our sisterhood. She's taken care of me emotionally, spiritually and physically throughout my lifetime. Even though she tried to trick me into thinking that a “flower” is really a “trash can,” I couldn't get married without her by my side.
Daniel Buchinger
Best Man
As two individuals with nearly identical interests, Daniel and I have shared many experiences since the day we met in 2010. Our obsession with geography presented itself during a seemingly endless bus ride through Cuba where, between the two of us we successfully listed off all but two countries in the world. We also pride ourselves in our skillful abilities in the kitchen. During our time as flat mates, we created our infamous, proprietary pasta recipe that became our kryptonite as we overindulged to the point of paralysis more than once. Throughout our friendship, we’ve mostly lived in different countries but have managed to stay close. Daniel and I enjoy each other’s company, no matter what we’re doing or discussing. For these reasons, I’m thrilled to have Daniel as my Best Man.
Danielle Fernandez-Norkus
Bridesmaid
With a 7-year head start, Danielle (lovingly referred to as The Singing Pharmacist) was someone I sought to be like in every way. Her combination of beauty, brains and a love for God made for a great role model. It also made for an interesting dynamic, where she acted more like a mother than a sister. If we’re being honest, she learned some parenting skills being my big sister over the years. For example, using your children to braid your hair and letting them run laps around the house to burn energy, just to name a couple. It was an honor to stand next to her at her wedding 11 years ago, and I’m happy to have her with me on this special occasion.
Lukas Derler
Groomsman
Lukas and I have shared many memories together as brothers - playing soccer, going on vacations and ultimately being roommates for much longer than expected. I remember lots of funny moments, including watching my 3-year-old brother shatter a glass door with his fist to stop me from calling him names. Together we once stole eggs out of Oma's chicken coop and smashed them against the house while naturally blaming the neighbor's kids. Much has changed since then. What we share now as brothers is a passion to debate any and all topics for hours on end. I admire the way he lives his life, including the determination he has as an athlete and professional. I look forward to watching him thrive and am proud to have him by my side on my wedding day.
Calli Minor
Bridesmaid
Calli, also known as Muskie, Cal-bell or - her favorite - Cal-sauce, is the best little sister I never had. Think of the funniest, most determined person you know and then multiply that by 10, and you've got Calli. From holding hands as we jumped on the neighbor's trampoline and watching the pure joy on her tiny face, to creating the most complex and ridiculous hand shake you've ever seen.. she's had a special piece of my heart for as long as she's been alive. Calli's the most talented cheerleader I know and has the brightest future ahead of her as she starts to explore colleges and what she wants to achieve in this life. I have no doubt she'll exceed her own expectations no matter where she goes, and I could not be more proud to have her with me for another forever memory.
Florian Derler
Groomsman
Florian, also known as Little Flo, is the kind of little brother and friend that’s always up for adventure and brings life to every interaction. Even at our age, we regularly wrestle like little kids. Every time he starts to laugh, I find myself cracking up uncontrollably, because it’s so contagious. When we were younger, he used to collect all the keys, lock the doors and run away. He once locked us out of Oma’s house, and the mailman had to climb in through a window to unlock the house from the inside. When I got home, Flo told me he’d thrown the keys into the hedges, and I had to hunt them down. Being his big brother, I’ve enjoyed watching him evolve from a goofy kid into an ambitious young man. I can’t wait for him to stand by me and make me laugh on this happy occasion.
Kristen Ford
Bridesmaid
Not only did SAS bring me Markus, it also brought me an invaluable friend in Kristen. After meeting Kristen in 2017, I immediately looked up to her as a professional and spiritual leader. She exudes such light, energy and confidence in everything she does. Kristen is the first person to welcome you with open arms and a huge smile when you enter a room. She has the most generous heart and knows exactly what to say and when to say it to encourage you through tough times. I feel so blessed by Kristen's friendship, humor and love and honored to have her stand by me on our wedding day!
Tom Miller
Groomsman
Tom and I met during Sales Academy, and immediately hit it off when we went for beers like the good Europeans we are. He’s one of very few who knew about Lili’s and my relationship from the very beginning and made us realize our relationship wasn’t as secret as we thought. We’re both very competitive, and it showed during Sales Academy as we tried to beat each other in soccer, the gym and more recently with skiing. Tom visited me twice in Austria to demonstrate his skiing skills and somehow still thinks he’s faster than I am 😉. Little did I know when he asked me to be in his wedding as a Master of Ceremony that the tables would turn, and he’d play a role in my wedding just a few years later. He’s become a great friend, and I’m looking forward to many more good times and ski trips.