Maid of Honor
Rachel and I met on a recruitment trip at Ohio Northern University, and we instantly clicked. We both ended up at Ohio Northern on the swim team, where our friendship quickly turned into an unbreakable bond. She truly was my partner in crime throughout college, whether we were driving around listening to music, getting into post practice shenanigans, or just spending every possible moment together. It is honestly hard to pick a favorite memory with Rachel because I love them all. She brings energy everywhere she goes, and some of my favorite moments are the spontaneous adventures we are always finding ourselves on. Rachel has been by my side through so much, from the highs and lows of college to navigating COVID and even both of us going through shoulder surgery from swimming. I truly cannot imagine a better friend than Rachel. She has always shown up for me in every way, and I feel so lucky to have her as my Maid of Honor and standing beside me on this special day.
Best Man
Sam and I have been inseparable since birth, always doing everything together. We spent our childhood reenacting famous battles with toy soldiers, playing NHL and NFL on the N64, and even sharing a room. We’ve been there for each other every step of the way, and he’s one of the few people who can understand what I’m thinking without saying a word. Sam has always brought a smile to my face, and with his uncanny ability to make anyone laugh, he can brighten any room. I couldn’t imagine my life without him, and I can’t think of a better person to stand as my best man.
Bridesmaid
My sister and I are three years apart, so I’ve known her for most of my life, haha. We were lucky enough to share a love of swimming, and I will always be so grateful for the time we got to spend together at practices and swim meets. Some of my favorite memories growing up are tied to those moments, and while it’s hard for me to admit she’s faster, it made it even more special to watch her push herself and succeed. We are complete opposites in so many ways, which definitely comes with plenty of sisterly banter, but it’s something I wouldn’t trade for the world. I am so proud of the person she has become, and I try to be a role model for her every day. I have loved getting to watch her grow and excel, especially at the collegiate level, and I could not be more proud of everything she has accomplished. She is incredibly driven, strong, and supportive, and she continues to inspire me in so many ways. I am so grateful to have a sister like V. She has always been there for me through every stage of life, and having that kind of constant support is something I will never take for granted. She is not only my sister but also one of my closest friends, someone who knows me better than anyone. I truly cannot imagine my life without her, and it means everything to have her standing by my side on this special day.
Groomsman
Ben is my brother, seven years older than me, and has always been someone I looked up to, so much so that I wore his number 8 for as long as I’ve played soccer. He’s always been a good reality check and has helped me stay grounded when I was going a million miles an hour, reminding me to slow down and appreciate the little things in life, even smelling the wet dog. I’m grateful to have him standing with me on such an important day.
Bridesmaid
Haley came into my life through my current role at the Ohio House of Representatives, and what started as a coworker relationship quickly turned into a true friendship. It all really began when she last minute invited me on a trip to DC for the inauguration with a group of coworkers. Between road tripping to DC, exploring downtown, and spending late nights bar hopping, we were inseparable from the start. From there, our friendship only grew stronger. Haley is such a special soul and one of the most genuinely caring people I know. She is always there for the people she loves, and her kindness shows in everything she does. She is so outgoing and spirited, constantly bringing me out of my shell and always lighting up the room with her energy and smile. She is incredibly smart, funny, honest, and definitely a talker in the best way. Unbeknownst to both of us, Haley actually grew up just a street over from Markwood Street, where the Markwood family settled, which makes our friendship feel even more meant to be. I am so grateful to have found such a true and meaningful friendship in her.
Groomsman
Matthew and I met during our college soccer summer training in 2017, and we instantly hit it off. Since then, we’ve traveled to Chicago, Florida, and all over Europe together. We share a lot of the same quirks and are always throwing random project ideas back and forth from automatic door openers to SLAM and path-planning robots. He’s incredibly loyal, and I’m thankful to have him standing by my side on such a big day.
Bridesmaid
Hannah has been part of my life since college, where we shared many of the same circles and both served on Student Senate. While we always knew each other, our friendship truly grew during my senior year when I made the decision to join a sorority. I joined Alpha Xi Delta while Hannah was president, and even though joining as a senior is far from typical, she immediately welcomed me in and treated me like a best friend from day one. Over that year, we became incredibly close, spending time together almost every day, going to events, and making the most of every moment. One of my favorite things about Hannah is the way she treats everyone around her. She is also unapologetically loud and straightforward in the best way, you always know exactly what she is thinking, and that honesty is something I truly admire. Hannah is the friend you didn't know you needed in life, and once you have her as a best friend you don't want to lose that. I am so grateful for the bond we built. Even more special is the fact that we have stayed close and now live just down the road from each other.
Groomsman
Patrick and I met during a college summer chemistry class in 2017, and he was my first friend at college. He also played a big role in Madeline and I first meeting in 2021. Patrick has always pushed me to try new things and live a little more. He’s the kind of friend everyone needs, and I’m thankful to have him standing with me during such an important moment in my life.
Bridesmaid
Abby is Todd’s sister, and I feel so lucky to be gaining her as family. While I have not known her as long as some of the others, it has been so special getting to know her and spend time together. From the beginning, she has been so kind and welcoming, which has meant a lot to me. Abby is incredibly sweet and thoughtful, and she always puts others before herself. I truly admire her dedication to her work and the way she consistently shows up for the people around her. She has such a caring and selfless nature, and it is something that really stands out about her. I am so excited to continue building our relationship and creating more memories together. It means so much to have her as part of this next chapter.
Groomsman
Zach and I have known each other since we could both kick a soccer ball all the way back to little kickers. Growing up together playing soccer, getting day-old bread before practice, or just sitting out back talking around a fire, he always has advice and a positive spin on things. I’m thankful to have him standing with me on such an important day.
Groomsman
Zach and I have known each other since elementary school, making him one of my oldest friends. Even if we don’t talk for months, every time we catch up or hang out, it feels like we’re back to driving around Findlay with nothing to do. Always ready with a good story or a joke, he can keep you laughing and talking for hours. I’m thankful to have him standing with me on such an important day.
Usher
Jordan and I have been friends since preschool, and we’ve gone through just about everything together. Whether we were in show choir, playing pick-up basketball at the Y, or having COD LAN parties, we were always up to something. Always ready to pull whatever sports stat you need or create a new catchphrase on the spot, I’m grateful to have him with me on this big day.